The Wife of the Anambra State Governor and Founder of the Healthy Living Initiative, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has renewed calls for stronger child protection measures in Nigeria following the full recovery and discharge of 10-year-old Chiziterem, whose case sparked nationwide outrage over child abuse.
Dr. Soludo described the boy’s recovery as a testament to the importance of prompt medical intervention, psychological support and collective action in restoring the health and wellbeing of abused children.
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She expressed appreciation to Nigerians whose prayers, visits, donations and words of encouragement contributed to Chiziterem’s recovery after he suffered severe abuse that left him with serious injuries.
“My heart is filled with immense gratitude as Chiziterem leaves the hospital today fully healed. His journey reminds us that kindness, compassion and collective love can restore hope even in the most difficult situations,” she said.
The First Lady thanked individuals, groups and organisations that stood by the child and his family throughout his treatment, noting that their support contributed significantly to his recovery.
She also disclosed that she had fulfilled her promise to settle all of Chiziterem’s medical bills and would support his mother with resources to establish a sustainable means of livelihood to improve the family’s welfare.
“As promised, I have taken care of all his medical bills, and we will also support his mother with the means to start a sustainable livelihood so she can provide a better future for her children,” she added.
Chiziterem’s case attracted national attention in June after a viral video showed the 10-year-old Enugu State indigene with severe burns and other injuries allegedly inflicted by his guardians in Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The incident triggered widespread condemnation across Nigeria and renewed calls for stronger enforcement of child protection laws and improved safeguards for vulnerable children.
Following the incident, Dr. Soludo visited the child, facilitated his admission to a medical facility for specialised treatment and pledged to oversee his recovery while supporting his family.
Medical caregivers confirmed that, in addition to treatment for his burns and other physical injuries, Chiziterem underwent psychological therapy to aid his recovery from the trauma associated with the alleged abuse.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police Command arraigned the child’s former guardians, Mr. Chukwudi Chukwuyere, 40, and Mrs. Chisom Chukwuyere, 30, over the alleged abuse. The suspects have been remanded in a correctional facility pending trial.
Dr. Soludo said Chiziterem’s recovery underscores the need for sustained investment in child healthcare, psychosocial support services and stronger community vigilance to protect children from abuse and neglect across Nigeria.
