Soludo celebrates birthday with patients in hospitals, correctional center inmates

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By Madu Obi

Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Monday celebrated his 65th birthday with patients at Psychiatric Hospital, Nawfia, St Charles Borromeo Hospital, Onitsha, Iyienu Hospital, Ogidi, as well as the inmates of the Correctional Center, Onitsha.

It was, indeed, a busy day for the governor, as he shuttled from one facility to the other, showcasing compassion and empathy.

At each facility, Governor Soludo engaged the patients and the inmates in heartfelt conversations, bringing smiles to their faces.

Emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness at Nawfia, the governor said: “Mental health is just as important as physical health. We must work together to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and ensure that those who need help receive it".

He called on the people, especially the youths, to be mindful what they consume, for the sake of their mental health.

The governor announced that the construction of a mental rehabilitation facility is ongoing at Nibo in Awka South local government area.

At the Correctional Centre, Onitsha, he spoke to the inmates about hope, redemption, and the importance of rehabilitation, noting that everyone deserves a second chance.

He said: "Our facilities should not only serve as centers of confinement, but as places of transformation. There is need for you to take advantage of the vocational training programmes that empower inmates with skills for reintegration into society upon your release. We want our youths to find purpose and opportunity without having to turn to crime,."

At the Borromeo and Iyienu hospitals, Soludo spoke on the challenges faced by the country's healthcare sector and commended the patients and healthcare workers for battling inadequate resources and overcrowding facilities while providing services.

“Healthcare is a fundamental human right that should be provided by government, and we must ensure that every citizen has access to quality care,” he stated.

He expressed his administration's commitment towards improving healthcare services across Anambra State.

Reflecting on the visits, the governor said: “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 in every corner of Anambra.”