The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has urged Nigerian youths to harness their talents, embrace hard work and pursue their dreams with determination, citing the international success of Anambra-born beauty queen, Miss Iruoma Osele, as an inspiration to young Nigerians seeking to make their mark on the global stage.
Soludo gave the charge while congratulating Osele on her emergence as Miss Continental World 2026 in Thailand, describing the achievement as a proud moment for Anambra State and Nigeria.
Osele, from Umueze Village, Isuofia, in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, also won three additional honours at the international pageant: Queen of Africa, Best Physique and Best National Costume.
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In a congratulatory statement issued in Awka, Mrs Soludo said Osele’s success demonstrated the courage, confidence, resilience and potential of Nigerian women to excel internationally.
She encouraged young Nigerians, particularly women and girls, to remain focused on their aspirations, stressing that dedication, discipline and perseverance could help them overcome challenges and compete successfully on the global stage.
The First Lady urged girls to draw inspiration from Osele’s accomplishment by daring to dream, developing their abilities and refusing to allow challenges or societal limitations to stand in the way of their ambitions.
She also emphasised the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles, building self-confidence and creating supportive environments where young people, especially girls, could develop their talents and realise their potential.
Soludo further called on parents, communities and relevant institutions to invest in the education and personal development of young women, noting that encouragement, positive values and access to opportunities were essential to helping them achieve their aspirations.
“Your remarkable achievement is a proud moment for Anambra State and indeed Nigeria. It celebrates the bravery, confidence, resilience and limitless potential of women,” she stated.
She noted that Osele’s victory should inspire more girls to dream boldly, break barriers and aspire to greater heights, assuring them that no dream was too big and no destination beyond their reach.
“You have carried Anambra to the world, and we are super, super proud of you. Congratulations, Queen!” the First Lady said.
