Anambra First Lady, Nonye Soludo, Calls for United Anti-Poverty Push

Dr. Nonye Soludo, the First Lady of Anambra State, has underscored the critical role of collaborative efforts in tackling poverty through a multi-faceted approach. She highlighted strategies such as creating employment opportunities, fostering practical empowerment initiatives, leveraging technology-driven solutions, driving economic transformation, and investing in human capital development.

Dr. Soludo, who is also the founder of the 'Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo' non-governmental organization, stressed that eradicating poverty is not a short-term project but an ongoing commitment. She articulated that poverty extends beyond mere financial scarcity, encompassing a lack of opportunities, dignity, and the essential means to build a brighter future for all citizens.

Her statements were conveyed in a press release issued by her media aide, Daniel Ezeigwe, on Saturday, coinciding with the global observance of the ‘International Day for the Eradication of Poverty’ on October 17. The First Lady quoted, “Poverty isn’t just about the absence of money; it’s about the absence of opportunities, dignity and the means to build a better future for all.”

She referenced the 2026 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index Country Briefing by OPHI, noting that Anambra State boasts one of Nigeria’s lowest multidimensional poverty rates at 9.6 percent, and the lowest within the South East region. While acknowledging this encouraging progress, Dr. Soludo emphasized that significant work remains.

She reiterated the ‘Solution Administration’s’ dedication to establishing an Anambra where prosperity is equitably distributed, opportunities are widely accessible, and no resident is marginalized. “Through job creation, practical empowerment opportunities, technology-driven initiatives, economic transformation and human capital development, we are creating pathways for Ndi Anambra to rise above poverty and achieve lasting prosperity,” she stated.

Dr. Soludo concluded with a vow: “We will not rest on our laurels until every Anambra citizen has a fair opportunity to live a dignified, productive, and fulfilling life.”

The United Nations annually observes the ‘International Day for the Eradication of Poverty’ on October 17, recognizing the intrinsic link between ending poverty and safeguarding human rights, dignity, and peace. The 2026-2028 theme, “United for Peace and Human Rights,” places particular emphasis on “Safe Homes for All” for the 2026 observance, underscoring adequate housing as fundamental for security, participation, and a life of dignity. According to the UN, over 2.8 billion people globally contend with some form of inadequate housing, with those already experiencing poverty and exclusion bearing the heaviest burden. Without secure and stable accommodation, access to healthcare, education, employment, and community engagement becomes considerably more challenging.