Governors Wife: Soludo Urges Women to Invest in Health, Not Bleaching Creams

Dr. Nonye Soludo, the wife of Anambra State Governor, has issued a heartfelt appeal to women in the state, urging them to prioritize their health over cosmetic products like bleaching creams. Speaking at the 2nd Anambra State Women Health Summit in Awka, organized under her Healthy Living Initiative in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Soludo emphasized the importance of regular health checks, balanced diets, and exercise for maintaining good health. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Soludo expressed concern over the low uptake of immunization in the state, calling on mothers to take their children’s health seriously. She highlighted that immunization is crucial in protecting children from life-long illnesses, and urged mothers to ensure their children receive the necessary vaccinations. “It’s disheartening to learn that Anambra State is lagging in immunization uptake,” she remarked. “Mothers need to prioritize immunization as it is key to keeping their children healthy and free from the stress and expenses that come with illness.”

Dr. Soludo also praised the efforts of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration, particularly the free antenatal and delivery policy, which has contributed to a significant reduction in maternal mortality in the state. She expressed her desire to see similar success in the area of child immunization. In a candid message to women, Dr. Soludo advised against the use of bleaching creams, encouraging them to embrace their natural skin color. “Instead of spending money on bleaching creams, invest in your health by eating balanced diets, going for regular health checks, and engaging in regular exercise,” she urged. Dr. Uju Obiagwu of the WHO, who also spoke at the event, echoed Dr. Soludo’s concerns about the declining immunization coverage in Anambra. She noted that despite the government's efforts to ensure the availability of childhood vaccines, the uptake remains low, leading to outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles, polio, and meningitis in some areas. “We’ve seen outbreaks in Anambra East, Anambra West, Ogbaru, and Ayamelum because parents aren’t taking their children for immunization,” Dr. Obiagwu lamented. “It’s crucial that mothers take responsibility and ensure their children are vaccinated to prevent these diseases and promote healthier lives.”

WHO's Anambra Coordinator, Dr. Mohamed Bonos, expressed gratitude to the state government for its partnership in promoting the health of residents. He reaffirmed the importance of the ongoing collaboration in achieving better health outcomes for children and families in the state. The summit also featured presentations from health experts, including Prof. Brian Adinma, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, who advised women to prioritize their reproductive health. The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, underscored the government’s commitment to the health and welfare of women and children, stating that the summit was a testament to this dedication. As the summit concluded, Dr. Nonye Soludo’s message was clear: investing in health is far more valuable than cosmetic enhancements. By focusing on balanced diets, regular check-ups, and immunization, women can ensure a healthier future for themselves and their children.