By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The government of Anambra under Professor Chukwuma Soludo has issued a strong warning against the practice of government organs, departments and agencies or its affiliates presenting merit, honour, or recognition awards to officers within this same government.

A statement by the Governor's spokesman, Christian Aburime, said that as an ethical leader who abhors undue self-promotion, the Governor particularly frowns on any attempt at self-recognition awards in this administration.

The statement read in part, "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.

"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.”