The Anambra State House of Assembly on Thursday confirmed the appointment of two Commissioner- nominees for the Ministries of Finance and Special Duties, whose names were forwarded to the House by the State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo.
Mr Izuchukwu Okafor takes over as Commissioner for Finance from Mr Ifeatu Onejeme who resigned earlier last month, while Beverly Nkemdiche-Ikpeazu was confirmed as Commissioner for Special Duties.
She replaces Barr Sly Ezeokenwa, who has been elected and sworn in as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA.
The Commissioner-nominee for Finance, Mr Okafor, who is an economist, was put to task, to explain his agenda for the State Finance Ministry.
In his response, Okafor promised to create and internal control mechanism, to checkmate leakages in the state’s fiscal management system.
He also said he will advise the State Governor, Professor Soludo on the best practices and ensure proper implementation of the annual appropriation laws of the state.
However, when it was the turn of the Commissioner-nominee for Special Duties, Mrs Nkemdiche-Ikpeazu, the House simply asked her to take a bow, as a three-term member of the State legislature.
The House eventually confirmed the appointment of the Commissioner-nominees via voice vote.
Speaking after the confirmation, the Speaker of the House, Right Hon Somtoo Udeze congratulated the appointees, describing their appointments as well-deserved, considering their track records.
He urged them to bring their experience to bear in their respective offices and ensure that they effectively drive the vision of the state government for their respective Ministries.
“I have no doubt that the Governor made the right choice in appointing you as Commissioners at this very critical stage of the state development.
“The onus is now on you to prove your mettle by ensuring that the vision of the governor in your respective Ministries are realized.
“I also encourage you not to hesitate to seek the support of this legislative assembly, whenever you have any grey areas you need assistance with.
“We will be willing to avail you the support when you request,” the Speaker promised.
The Commissioner-Designate for Special Duties, Nkemdiche-Ikpeazu, who later moved a vote of thanks, expressed appreciation to the House for the confirmation and assured that they will get to work immediately they are sworn in.
