Anambra First Lady Marks 55th Birthday with Hospital Outreach, Free Surgeries and Cash Aid

The First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, marked her 55th birthday in a compassionate way by visiting several hospitals across the state as part of a medical outreach and humanitarian intervention.

On Thursday, Dr. Soludo visited Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital in Awka, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Nnewi, and the newly-commissioned General Hospital in Okpoko. During her visits, numerous patients received financial assistance to cover medical bills and other expenses. Some beneficiaries also underwent free surgeries and received complimentary eye care, medical consultations, and health screenings for hypertension, diabetes, malaria, and respiratory infections — all funded by the governor’s wife.

As founder of the “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo” initiative, the First Lady personally engaged with patients, offering prayers, encouragement, and singing songs of praise. She also distributed cash gifts to support their treatment and recovery.

Speaking to journalists after her outreach in Okpoko, Dr. Soludo shared that spending her birthdays with the sick and less privileged is a personal tradition she has maintained since her youth.

“Instead of throwing parties, I prefer to spend the day with those in need — the sick, orphans, and the vulnerable. It’s something I’ve done even before marriage,” she said. “My greatest fulfillment comes from bringing joy to others. Seeing people smile is all I need to feel fulfilled.”

She urged other well-meaning individuals to also find ways to positively impact lives, noting that even simple acts of kindness can make a significant difference.

“Making someone smile doesn’t require much — sometimes just being there is enough. Even helping someone find a place to rest is an act of love,” she added, while also commending hospital staff for their commitment and cleanliness of the facilities.

Later in the evening, a small gathering was held at the Light House in Awka to round off the day. Speaking at the event, Governor Chukwuma Soludo praised his wife’s selfless spirit and described her as “the engine” that powers their home.

“For her, today was about service — organizing surgeries, clearing hospital bills, and supporting the needy, all made possible by generous individuals,” he noted. “She’s not just my partner, she’s the force behind everything. Soft-spoken, yet a woman of steel and deep character.”

Reflecting on their relationship, Governor Soludo added, “I lost my mother at eight, but in her, I found not just a wife but a mother, a companion, and a moral compass. Celebrating her today is also celebrating the values she represents.”