By Kingsley Ezekwelu
The Anambra state governor, Dr Willie Obiano this afternoon swore-in nine newly appointed Permanent Secretaries into the State Civil, including a physically challenged.
The new Permanent Secretaries included Mr Linus Nwankwo, Barr Chukwudi Ike, Mrs Nneka Ezeanya, Mrs Patricia Ezeaku, Mr Emeka Ohuoha, Mrs Stephanie Keri-Uzor, Mrs Caroline Njaka, Dr Azuka Ofomata and Mrs Pauline Nwandu.
Congratulating the newly sworn in Permanent Secretaries, Gov Obiano who explained that they were selected on merit, noting that his government has shown that it is gender-sensitive with the selection of more women in the appointment.
He revealed that a one-week training programme would be organized for them on the programmes and policies of the state administration to ensure that they effectively play their expected role in driving the vision of the state government.
He urged them to abide by the Oaths they had taken and ensure that they bring their wealth of knowledge and experience to bear in transforming the State Civil Service, describing the appointment of a physically challenged, Dr Oformata as clear indices that his government does not toy with the welfare of persons with special needs.
Earlier, the Head of Service, Mr Harry Udu explained that the governor's approval for the appointment is in line with his total commitment to the repositioning of the State Civil Service and ensuring that the machinery of Government is continually fine-tuned for optimal service delivery.
Responding on behalf of the new Permanent Secretaries, Dr Oformata thanked Governor Obiano for the appointment and promised that they will put in their best in the discharge of their new assignments.
He lauded the numerous efforts of the present administration to secure a new lease of life for persons with special needs, adding that his appointment was a testament to this.
The new Permanent Secretaries were at the meeting administered with Oath of allegiance and the Oath of Office by the Solicitor General of the State, Barr Tina Emekekwe.