By Chuka Nnabuife
When Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State presided over the oath-taking of the first batch of his executive team last Wednesday, he welcomed them as a special crop of leaders distinguished by an exceptional zeal for service.
He described them as leaders who have willingly chosen to “pay to serve” Ndi Anambra. Identifying the men and women as Team Solution 2.0, he emphasised their unique commitment to the philosophy and practice of his Solution Government. Most importantly, he highlighted their guiding mindset: placing service above the gains of office. “I only see work here, no dining table,” said the widely acknowledged hardworking governor.
As further appointments are expected to complete the Solution 2.0 team, beyond the initial 16 technocrats, those who embody this spirit of paying to serve Anambra are anticipated to fill the remaining positions.
Professor Soludo’s belief that his team must work tirelessly to transform Anambra State rapidly and deliberately has been evident since he assumed office in March 2022.
Throughout his first term, he repeatedly stressed that he was racing against time, noting the enormous work required to move the state from a departure lounge to a preferred destination. In his clearly articulated vision of making Anambra the “Dubai, Taiwan, Silicon Valley” of Africa, the governor seeks collaborators—supporting hands, aides, associates, and institutions—who share his values and sense of urgency.
He therefore recruits men and women with a reformed orientation towards power and material gain. His philosophy is clear: public office is a trust, not a transaction. Leaders are expected to sacrifice personal comfort for the greater good of society. This aligns with classical traditions that regard leadership as sacrifice rather than privilege.
In The Republic, Plato argued that true rulers are those who neither seek wealth nor power, but accept leadership as a duty to justice. Aristotle likewise maintained that public office must serve the common good, not private interest. From this standpoint, the Solution Government’s “paying to serve” mantra is well suited to a society eager to advance to a higher level.
Moreover, there is a strong moral dimension to this ideology. Religious traditions, including Christian social teaching, emphasise servant leadership—leaders who give rather than take. Anambra, as a deeply rooted Christian society, finds resonance in this ethic.
Beyond its symbolism of selflessness and commitment—qualities essential for restoring public trust—the idea carries practical significance. By identifying and working with men and women willing to pay to serve, Governor Soludo strengthens his chances of achieving the ambitious targets he has set, and which Ndi Anambra have renewed their mandate for him to pursue.
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