Anambra First Lady Champions Diabetes Awareness Through ‘Healthy Living’ Initiative

The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has called for urgent, collective action to combat the rising diabetes epidemic in Nigerian communities.

In a statement released on Friday to mark World Diabetes Day, the Anambra First Lady warned that diabetes remains a major health concern in Nigeria, with official figures showing that over three million people in the country are living with the disease.

She emphasized the critical role of lifestyle choices in managing diabetes, saying, “Controlling the diabetes epidemic in our communities is a task that demands both hands. Routine medical checks are important, but the first step is to observe our lifestyles carefully. Lifestyle choices can kill or save.”

Dr. Soludo also highlighted the impact of diet on health outcomes. “Much of what we consume today is harming us. We must pay attention to what goes into our bodies, whether food or drink. Healthy living plays the biggest role in combating this epidemic. Diabetes has entered our homes largely because we have chosen junk and unhealthy foods over natural, nutritious options,” she added.

To promote awareness, she led a ‘Healthy Living Walk’ across communities in Anambra State, bringing together government officials, health workers, students, and residents. The initiative aimed to encourage physical fitness, healthy eating, and disease prevention.

“The goal of ‘Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo’ is to advocate for physically fit, safe, and healthy communities,” she said after the exercise. “I start my day with a walk, and this initiative has grown to cover the entire state. Communities are embracing morning exercises, and people are taking their health seriously because health is the greatest wealth.”

She concluded by urging residents to prioritize their wellbeing: “Whatever you do in life, your health should be your number one job. I am delighted to see the people of Anambra embracing healthy living, with activities taking place every Saturday across local government areas.”