The wife of the Anambra State Governor and founder of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, Dr Nonye Soludo, renewed her call for stronger protection of children’s rights while reaffirming support for vulnerable children across the state.
Dr Soludo made the appeal in a message marking the annual observance, which celebrates the resilience, aspirations and potential of African children and underscores the need for governments and communities to safeguard their welfare and development.
She said children remain the foundation of sustainable development and urged continued investment in education, healthcare, nutrition, child protection and human capital development to secure Africa’s future.
“In Anambra State, under the Solution Administration, we remain deeply committed to creating an environment where every child can learn, grow, thrive and reach their full potential,” she said.
The First Lady stressed that parents, caregivers, educators, community leaders and government institutions must work together to protect children’s rights and ensure that no child is left behind.
The Day of the African Child commemoration coincided with her intervention in the case of Chiziterem, a 10-year-old boy from Enugu State who was allegedly abused by his guardian in Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Following public outrage over the incident, Dr Soludo directed the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, to facilitate the child’s transfer to a specialised medical facility for comprehensive treatment and care.
“I am deeply saddened and disturbed by the horrific abuse allegedly suffered by the 10-year-old boy at the hands of his guardian. No child, whatever the offence, deserves to endure such cruelty,” she said.
Dr Soludo later visited the child at the hospital to assess his condition and encourage him as he begins his recovery.
Providing an update after the visit, she disclosed that medical personnel had confirmed that the boy’s condition was stable and responding positively to treatment.
“I am relieved by the reassuring update from the medical team that his condition is now stable. While he still requires adequate care and support to fully heal, it is heartening to see the progress he has made within such a short time,” she stated.
She described the incident as a stark reminder of society’s collective responsibility to protect children from abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence, pledging continued support for the victim throughout his recovery.
Through the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, Dr Soludo has continued to champion programmes focused on child welfare, healthcare, nutrition, education and the protection of vulnerable children in Anambra State.
She commended healthcare workers, concerned citizens and child protection advocates for their support and urged the public to promptly report cases of child abuse and other emergencies through the state’s designated emergency lines.
The Day of the African Child is observed annually on 16 June to honour the memory of children who participated in the 1976 Soweto Uprising in South Africa and to promote the protection, education and welfare of children across Africa.
