The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo has renewed calls for stronger public commitment to preventive healthcare, warning that cancer continues to claim lives at an alarming rate while preventable childhood diseases still threaten millions of children.
In a statement marking this year’s World Cancer Day, themed “United by Unique,” Soludo said the campaign underscores the human dimension of cancer, stressing that behind every diagnosis is a personal story that requires empathy, care and collective responsibility.
She said the theme calls for a more intentional, people-centred approach to cancer awareness, prevention, and support.
“Cancer is still stealing from us on an unimaginable scale,” she said, noting that while survival stories exist, the growing number of deaths highlights widespread neglect of routine cancer screening and healthy living. She stressed that early detection remains the most effective weapon against the disease, urging individuals to prioritise regular medical checks.
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Soludo said many cancer cases become fatal because they are detected too late, adding that people should not wait for symptoms before seeking screening. She also called for a reassessment of lifestyle choices, warning that unhealthy diets, addictions and poor consumption habits have allowed cancer to gain deeper footholds in homes and communities.
Beyond cancer advocacy, the Anambra first lady also announced the launch of the Measles-Rubella (MR) Vaccine Introduction Campaign in the state, describing it as a major step in protecting children from preventable but potentially deadly diseases.
In a separate message posted on her official social media platforms, Soludo said the campaign marked the beginning of an intensive statewide vaccination effort targeting children aged nine months to 14 years. She described the measles-rubella vaccine as safe, effective, and critical to child survival, stressing that immunisation remains one of the most powerful tools in public health.
“The vaccine is free and will be administered over a 10-day period, ending February 14, 2026,” she said, appealing to parents, local government officials, school administrators, traditional leaders and religious institutions to support the campaign and help achieve at least 98% coverage, representing about 2.7 million children.
Soludo described immunisation as a fundamental right of every child, warning that denying children access to vaccines amounts to denying them the chance of a healthy and productive life. She reassured parents and caregivers that the measles-rubella vaccine is safe and reliable, urging communities to ensure that no eligible child is left out.
Health officials say the combined focus on cancer prevention and childhood immunisation reflects a broader push by the Anambra State government to strengthen preventive healthcare and reduce avoidable deaths through early intervention and public awareness.