Governor Soludo Marks 65th Birthday with Humanitarian Visits to Hospitals, Correctional Centre

Governor Soludo Marks 65th Birthday with Humanitarian Visits to Hospitals, Correctional Centre

Anambra, Nigeria – July 29, 2025

Rather than celebrate with fanfare, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo chose a path of compassion and service as he marked his 65th birthday with visits to hospitals and correctional facilities across Anambra State on Monday.

The Governor's itinerary included stops at the Psychiatric Hospital in Nawfia, the Onitsha Correctional Centre, St. Charles Borromeo Specialist Hospital, and Iyienu Hospital, Ogidi, where he spent the day engaging with patients, inmates, healthcare professionals, and support staff.

According to his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, the Governor's outreach was designed to reflect his deep commitment to humanitarian values and servant leadership.

Focus on Mental Health in Nawfia

Governor Soludo began his birthday outreach at the Nawfia Psychiatric Hospital, where he was warmly received by medical personnel and patients. In candid interactions, he stressed the importance of mental health and called for greater awareness and support for individuals battling mental illness.

“Mental health is just as important as physical health,” Soludo said. “We must break the stigma and ensure that those in need of help receive it without fear or shame.”

The Governor announced the ongoing construction of a mental health rehabilitation facility in Nibo and pledged increased support for existing facilities, including Nawfia.

Visit to Onitsha Correctional Centre: Hope and Rehabilitation

At the Onitsha Correctional Centre, Governor Soludo addressed inmates on the themes of redemption and second chances. He highlighted the importance of rehabilitation and vocational training programmes, urging inmates to take advantage of these opportunities.

“Our correctional facilities should not be centers of punishment alone, but places of transformation,” he said. “We want our youths to find purpose and opportunity, not crime.”

Healthcare Advocacy in Onitsha and Ogidi

Governor Soludo concluded his tour with visits to St. Charles Borromeo Specialist Hospital, Onitsha, and Iyienu Hospital, Ogidi, where he interacted with patients and health workers and assessed the challenges facing the healthcare sector.

At St. Charles, he witnessed first-hand the issues of overcrowding and resource constraints and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery.

“Healthcare is a fundamental human right,” he declared. “We are committed to ensuring that every citizen has access to quality and affordable care.”

At Iyienu Hospital, the Governor was honored with a symbolic birthday cake presented by students, marking a joyful close to a day rooted in service and empathy.

A Renewed Commitment to Service

Reflecting on the day’s events, Governor Soludo described the visits as a personal reminder of the needs of the underserved and vulnerable in society.

“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 across Anambra State,” he said.

Governor Soludo was accompanied by top government officials, including Chief of Staff Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Commissioner for Health Dr. Afam Obidike, Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Chinedu Nwoye, and others.

The Governor's gesture was widely praised as a demonstration of compassionate governance and a clear statement of his administration's commitment to inclusive development.