The Governor of Anambra State, Prof Charles Soludo, Saturday, at the exco chamber of the Government House, Awka, swore in 20 new Commissioners that were earlier confirmed by the State’s House of Assembly.
The commissioners are: Mr. Ifeatu Chinedu (Finance), Prof. Ofonze Amucheazi (Lands) Mr. Ifeanyi Okoma (Works), Ms. Chiamaka Nnake (Budget) Dr. Afam Obidike (Health), Mr. Patrick Agha-mba (Youth Development), Mrs. Ifeyinwa Obinabo (Women/Children Affairs), Dr. Obinna Ugonnadi, Mr. Julius Chukwuemeka (Power/Water Resources), and Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh (Education).
Others are: Mr. Paul Nwosu (Information), Dr. Foster Ihejiofor (Agriculture), Mrs. Patricia Igwebuike (Transport), Mr. Felix Odimegwu (Environment), Mr. Chikodi Anara (Home Land Affairs), Prof. Chika Ifemeje (Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice), Mr. Collins Nwabunwanne (Local Government Affairs), Mr. Donatus Onyeji (Culture/Entertainment), Mr. Anthony Ifeanya (Petroleum) and Mr. Paulinus Onyeaka (Housing).
Also sworn in is the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Air Vice Marshall, Ben Chiobi (rtd).
Taking their Oath of office and Oath of Allegiance, the Commissioners pledged to be faithful and pay true allegiance to the constitutions of Nigeria.
They promised to perform their duties diligently and follow their part of Justice, and comply with all applicable laws of the State.
Speaking at the event, Soludo described them as members of a Solution team, who are eager to deliver their duties for the betterment of the state.
The Governor, while congratulating them, said their new position will be tasky as Ndi Anambra have high expectations of them.
He noted that over 1,000 people applied to be commissioners, but congratulated them they were selected through a rigorous screening.
He said: “You are judged to be the experts and you are fixed in your various ministries to deliver excellence.
“It’s a call to work and not a call to celebrate. Expression of interest means you have the passion to serve the state. Keep your eyes on the public purpose.”
Soludo urged them to always re-read the Oath of Office and Allegiance to direct them, but always keep their eyes on the ball. He urged them to think of how the ministry and the state will be better.
Soludo also promised to provide them with his contract with Ndi Anambra also known as his campaign manifesto.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, recalled that the commissioners were thoroughly screened, and passed through security examinations before submitting their names at the State’s House of Assembly.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioners, the Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Chika Ifemeje, promised to abide by the provisions of the Constitution and to work harmoniously with the Governor for the development of the state.