The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has urged Nigerians to prioritise heart health through healthy lifestyles, regular medical checks and early attention to warning signs of cardiovascular disease.
Soludo made the call in a statement released in Awka on Tuesday to mark the 2026 World Heart Day, observed annually on September 29 to raise awareness of cardiovascular diseases and promote preventive measures.
The statement said Soludo, who is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, had consistently advocated preventive healthcare and healthy lifestyle practices.
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“Your heart works for you every single day. Make the choice to work for it too,” she said, urging Nigerians to adopt habits that support cardiovascular health.
The 2026 World Heart Day campaign is themed “Don’t Miss a Beat,” with emphasis on recognising the signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease, protecting heart health and encouraging action against the disease.
The World Heart Federation says cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally, accounting for more than 20 million deaths annually, with several major risk factors preventable or manageable.
The World Health Organisation identifies unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful use of alcohol among key behavioural risk factors, while high blood pressure, high blood sugar and high cholesterol can further increase the risk.
Soludo advised Nigerians to eat healthier foods, exercise regularly, manage stress, get adequate rest and avoid tobacco, while seeking professional medical attention when necessary.
She also urged Nigerians to regularly check their blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, stressing that early detection and proper management could help prevent serious complications.
“Heart health is not something we should think about only when there is a problem. It is something we must protect every day through the choices we make,” she said.
The First Lady further urged families to encourage healthy habits among children and young people, noting that cardiovascular health should not be considered only an issue affecting older people.
She called for greater public awareness and preventive health education, particularly at the community level, to improve knowledge of cardiovascular risk factors and encourage timely medical care.
“Let us make healthy living a conscious part of our daily lives. Eat better, stay active, manage stress, rest well and go for routine health checks,” she said.
Soludo urged Nigerians not to ignore unusual symptoms or delay seeking professional care, adding that protecting heart health required individual responsibility and sustained public-health action.
“Take care of your heart today, because a healthier heart means a healthier life,” she said
