The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo has called for greater investment in women’s empowerment and leadership as a pathway to inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Mrs Soludo made the call while addressing participants at the APGA Women Summit held in Awka, the state capital, where women leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss strategies for strengthening the role of women in economic and community development.
The summit, organised by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), brought together women leaders, entrepreneurs and community representatives from the 21 local government areas of Anambra State to deliberate on issues of economic inclusion, leadership development and social wellbeing.
Speaking on the theme “Empower Her, Elevate All,” Mrs. Soludo emphasised that “empowering women remains critical to building stronger families, communities, and a more prosperous society.”
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According to her, meaningful empowerment begins with self-development, skill acquisition, and the willingness to take advantage of opportunities that enhance productivity and leadership.
“Women are intelligent, resilient, and hardworking. When women are empowered, families become stronger, communities become more stable, and the nation itself benefits,” she said.
Mrs Soludo noted that the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo has continued to promote policies that create opportunities for women to thrive based on competence, capacity, and merit.
She stressed that women play an essential role in community development and encouraged them to revive traditional communal values that promote cooperation, mutual support, and shared responsibility.
“We must return to the culture of being our brother’s keeper. When communities care for one another, society becomes stronger and more peaceful,” she said.
The First Lady also highlighted the importance of healthy living as a foundation for productivity and long-term success, urging women to prioritise proper nutrition, regular exercise, and mental wellbeing.
“Health is the greatest wealth. Women must take deliberate steps to protect their physical and mental wellbeing so they can continue to support their families and contribute meaningfully to society,” she added.
She further said that a large-scale empowerment programme aimed at supporting women across the state is being developed, with a focus on entrepreneurship, skills acquisition, and financial independence.
As part of the summit activities, some participants received cash support and empowerment materials to support small businesses and vocational initiatives.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Seahorse Company, Ebuka Onunkwo, said the summit was designed to equip women with practical knowledge and skills needed to become self-reliant entrepreneurs and influential leaders in their communities.
He encouraged participants to remain committed to positive values and community service while supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening economic development in the state.
In her remarks, the APGA State Women Leader, Mrs. Esther Onyekezi, praised Mrs Soludo for championing women’s wellbeing through advocacy on health, entrepreneurship, and social development.
She noted that the First Lady’s initiatives have continued to inspire women across the state to pursue healthier lifestyles and greater economic participation.
Onyekezi also commended women in Anambra for their resilience and contributions to the development of their communities.