No More Internal Awards: Governor Soludo Stops Govt. Agencies From Giving Awards To Govt. Officials

By Daniel Dafe

“Following a due directive by Mr Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, please be advised that the Anambra State Government has issued a strong warning against the idea and practice of government organs, departments and agencies or its affiliates presenting merit, honour, or recognition awards to officers within this same government.”

Christian Aburime, Press Secretary to the Governor, said this in a statement on Sunday.

He added: “As an ethical leader who abhors undue self-promotion, Mr. Governor particularly frowns on any attempt at self-recognition awards in this administration.

“While recognising and appreciating the hard work, excellence, and dedication of government employees is crucial, such accolades should ideally originate from external, independent organisations.

“Also, while internal appreciation is commendable, it is important to emphasise that awarding of merit awards by government agencies or its affiliates to their own officers can create a perception of impropriety and abuse of privilege. True excellence should be recognised objectively and impartially, and external validation from independent bodies carries greater weight and credibility.”

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The statement continued: “The government encourages all relevant bodies to prioritise, if necessary, external recognition opportunities for deserving officers. These could include awards from professional bodies, civil society organisations, and other reputable institutions that conduct independent evaluations and adhere to rigorous selection criteria.

“Therefore, as this directive aims to uphold the highest standards of transparency, merit, objectivity, and integrity within the Anambra State Government as always advocated by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, all organs of the state government and its affiliates are enjoined to comply accordingly.”