World Diabetes Day: Anambra First Lady Calls for Urgent Action on Rising Diabetes Cases

The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has urged Nigerians to take collective and decisive action against the growing diabetes burden in communities across the country.

In a statement released on Friday to mark World Diabetes Day, Dr. Soludo warned that diabetes remains a major public health challenge, noting that “official data shows that more than three million Nigerians are currently living with the disease.”

She emphasized the critical role of lifestyle choices in preventing and managing the condition. “Tackling the diabetes epidemic requires joint effort,” she said. “Routine medical checks are vital, but the most important step is paying closer attention to how we live. Lifestyle choices can either save or destroy.”

Highlighting the impact of diet, she lamented the increasing consumption of unhealthy foods. “Much of what we eat today is harming our bodies. We must be more intentional about what we consume food, drinks, everything. Healthy Living begins with what we put on our plates,” she said.

Dr. Soludo added that the rising cases of diabetes are tied to the preference for processed and unhealthy foods over natural options, urging families to “rethink their choices” in order to curb the disease.

Her comments come weeks after she led a ‘Healthy Living Walk’ across various communities in Anambra State to promote fitness, healthy eating, and disease prevention. The walk, which kicked off in Aroma, Awka, drew government officials, health workers, students, and residents.

She reiterated that physical activity remains a powerful tool for preventing illnesses, stressing the importance of good nutrition for both children and adults. “Part of our Healthy Living initiative is sustained advocacy for physically fit, safe, and healthy communities. I begin my day with a walk, and this culture is spreading across Anambra,” she said.

According to her, the ‘Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo’ initiative now sees local governments and communities organizing regular morning exercises. “I’m pleased that our people are embracing it because health is the greatest wealth,” she added.

Dr. Soludo concluded by encouraging residents to prioritise their wellbeing. “Whatever you do in life, your health should come first. I’m happy to see Anambra people taking ownership of their health. We do this every Saturday, and many communities now do the same.”