Anambra First Lady Expands Healthy Living Initiative – Voice of Nigeria

Mrs. Nonye Soludo, wife of the Anambra State Governor and a leading wellness advocate, has inaugurated the second phase of the Healthy Living Organic Garden Programme.

The initiative aims to promote a culture of healthy living among students and communities across the state, reinforcing her commitment to sustainable wellness.

The official ceremony, held in Awka, marked the inauguration of Healthy Living Ambassadors—students selected to lead the activities of Healthy Living School Clubs in participating secondary schools.

Addressing attendees, Mrs Soludo outlined the initiative’s vision of instilling early interest in agriculture, promoting values such as hard work, charity, and the health benefits of growing and consuming organic produce.

“Healthy living must be our culture and way of life. When you eat natural, healthy food, you reduce your chances of falling sick,” she remarked.

“Students who doze off in class may be reacting to the synthetic food they consume. We must encourage our children to grow vegetables and green peppers in school gardens. Let them learn to eat what they understand and avoid what they don’t.”

Mrs Soludo also introduced Pad Banks in schools and distributed sanitary materials to female students, underscoring her focus on holistic well-being.

“I would be unhappy to hear that any female student is stained while in school. That experience can demoralise them,” she said.

She further explained that the income generated from school gardens could be partially channelled into supporting the underprivileged, teaching students the value of charity and social responsibility.

Professor Nkechi Ikediugwu, Chairman of the Anambra State Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC), praised the First Lady’s dedication to child development, describing the initiative as a timely intervention that promotes responsible and healthy lifestyles from an early age.

She also commended Mrs Soludo for the inclusion of visually impaired teachers in the education system, noting that 28 blind teachers are currently serving in public schools across the state.

Also speaking at the event, Dr Afam Obidike, Commissioner for Health, and Mr TonyCollins Nwabunwanne, Commissioner for Local Government, lauded Mrs Soludo’s grassroots-focused efforts, highlighting their potential to transform family health and societal wellbeing if effectively implemented.

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Several school principals received agricultural tools, sanitary pads, and other essential supplies during the event.

They expressed their gratitude to the First Lady and pledged their unwavering support for the programme.

The event culminated in the endorsement of school ambassadors, chosen for their leadership potential.

Mrs Soludo appealed to principals to nurture and support these ambassadors to ensure the success and sustainability of the initiative.

The Healthy Living Organic Garden Programme continues to stand as a strategic initiative to promote nutrition, hygiene, environmental stewardship, and youth empowerment in Anambra State.