The First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has embarked on a series of charitable initiatives and medical outreaches aimed at supporting healthcare delivery and improving the well-being of residents across the state.
As part of the programme to mark her 55th birthday, Dr. Soludo visited the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital in Awka, the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Nnewi, and the newly commissioned Okpoko General Hospital in Onitsha.
Patients across these facilities received various forms of support—including cash donations to offset medical bills, free surgical procedures, eye care services, and screenings for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
These services were fully sponsored through the First Lady’s initiative, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, and generous contributions from public-spirited individuals.
At each hospital, Dr Soludo was seen personally engaging with patients—offering prayers, words of encouragement, and singing songs of praise.
Her warm and compassionate presence lifted spirits, with many staff and patients visibly moved by the gesture.
In Okpoko General Hospital, residents broke into spontaneous songs of gratitude, affectionately calling her “Mama Anambra.”
Speaking to journalists, Dr Soludo explained that celebrating her birthday with the sick and vulnerable had long been a personal tradition:
“Rather than parties, I mark each birthday with the sick, the orphans, and the vulnerable. It’s my way of reflecting on the true meaning of life, showing love, giving hope, and putting smiles on people’s faces.”
When asked how many patients’ bills she had covered, she replied with humility:
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“I honestly don’t know. I lost count. I just wanted to touch lives in whatever way I could.”
She added that bringing joy to others remains her most cherished experience:
“My happiest moments are when I see people smile. With what I’ve done today, I consider my birthday celebration complete. Anything else is just extra.”
Dr Soludo also encouraged others to show kindness in small ways:
“Making people smile doesn’t cost much. Sometimes, all it takes is your presence. Even helping an elderly woman find a place to sleep is an act of love.”
She commended the medical staff at the three hospitals, especially praising the hygiene and dedication of personnel at Okpoko General Hospital:
“I am impressed by how neat the environment is. May the Almighty bless and continue to strengthen the doctors and nurses for their hard work.”
Later that evening, at a modest private gathering held at the Light of the Nation Lodge, Government House Awka, Governor Chukwuma Soludo paid glowing tribute to his wife, describing her as the “engine” that powers both their family and their shared philanthropic mission.
“This birthday is not just about celebrating a person; it’s a moment of charity and reflection. These surgeries and hospital bill payments were made possible by generous individuals who supported this cause.”
Reflecting on his journey with her, the governor said:
“I knew I was blessed the day she said yes to me. Behind her soft-spoken nature is a woman of steel and character. I lost my mother at eight, but in her, I found a mother, a partner, and a pillar for our family.”
He concluded by thanking all who contributed to making the day meaningful, reiterating that service, compassion, and community spirit remain the core values behind the celebration.