Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo marked his 65th birthday in a unique and compassionate manner, dedicating the day to humanitarian outreach across Anambra State.
Eschewing elaborate celebrations, the Governor instead visited patients and inmates, emphasizing empathy, service, and a commitment to social welfare.
The series of visits, which included the Psychiatric Hospital in Nawfia, the Onitsha Correctional Centre, St. Charles Borromeo Specialist Hospital, and Iyienu Hospital in Ogidi, reflected the Governor’s focus on inclusive leadership and care for the vulnerable.
According to the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the day’s activities began at midday with a stop at the psychiatric facility in Nawfia.
Governor Soludo was warmly received by staff and patients, with many expressing appreciation for his visit. Engaging directly with patients, he highlighted the need to prioritize mental health and end the stigma surrounding mental illness.
“Mental health is just as important as physical health. We must work together to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and ensure that those who need help receive it,” the Governor stated. He also advised young people to be mindful of what they consume for the sake of their mental well-being.
During the visit, Governor Soludo announced the ongoing construction of a mental rehabilitation facility in Nibo and pledged further support for the Nawfia hospital.
At the Onitsha Correctional Centre, Governor Soludo addressed the inmates, offering a message of hope and transformation. “Every one of us deserves a second chance. Our facilities should not only serve as centers of confinement but as places of transformation,” he said.
He urged inmates to embrace the vocational training programmes available to them, stressing their importance for reintegration into society. “We want our youth to find purpose and opportunity without having to turn to crime,” the Governor added.
The Governor’s next stop was St. Charles Borromeo Specialist Hospital, Onitsha, where he interacted with patients and healthcare workers. He was met with the realities of overcrowded wards and strained resources.
“Healthcare is a fundamental human right that should be provided by the government, and we must ensure that every citizen has access to quality care,” Governor Soludo said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to healthcare improvement.
The day concluded at Iyienu Hospital, Ogidi, where the Governor was welcomed with a birthday cake courtesy of the students. His engagement with patients and staff reflected a sincere concern for their welfare and a message of hope.
Reflecting on the day’s activities, Governor Soludo remarked, “This is just the beginning. My 65th year will be driven by a renewed sense of purpose to uplift the underserved, empower the vulnerable, and promote healing in every corner of Anambra.”
Governor Soludo was accompanied during the visits by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike; Chief of Protocol; and Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Chinedu Nwoye, among others.