Anambra First Lady’s Nutritional Breakthrough Earns Honorary Doctorate, Global Acclaim

Awka, Anambra State– Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the First Lady of Anambra State, has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Science (DSc) degree in Public Health and Nutrition by Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU). This prestigious recognition, conferred during the university’s convocation ceremony on Saturday, May 24, at its Igbariam campus, celebrates her profound impact on public health, particularly through her innovative “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative” and the widely impactful “Nonye Healthy Living Pap” formula.

Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, speaking as the Special Visitor at the ceremony, lauded his wife’s unwavering commitment to wellness, which he credits for significantly reducing child malnourishment rates across Anambra State. “My beloved wife insists we exercise dirty and eat clean. This has been her way even before becoming First Lady. Her special pap formula has reversed Anambra’s malnourishment index,” Governor Soludo stated. He further highlighted the global attention her efforts have garnered, noting that the initiative has received recognition from esteemed organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and Rotary International.

In her acceptance speech, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo expressed profound gratitude to the university, her family, and the dedicated “Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo” team. She emphasized that her initiative, launched 19 years ago, was a passion-driven project focused on promoting wellness rather than seeking accolades. “I’m deeply honoured to receive this honorary doctorate in Public Health and Nutritional Advocacy from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University. When I started this journey, it was never about awards. It was about sharing my life’s story in a way that inspires others,” she remarked.

The “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative” is a comprehensive program that has permeated communities across the state. Key components include the establishment of “Healthy Living Clubs” and “Healthy Living Farms” in all 21 local government areas, encouraging organic food cultivation. The initiative also champions “Healthy Living School Ambassadors” and community/school gardens, instilling healthy habits from a young age.

ADVERTISEMENT

A cornerstone of her work is the “Nonye Healthy Living Pap,” a natural baby formula made from a blend of groundnut, corn, and soya beans. Unveiled on August 6, 2024, this nutrient-rich formula—packed with carbohydrates, healthy fats, fiber, protein, zinc, and essential vitamins (B1, B2, B3, and iron)—has proven instrumental in combating child malnutrition. The pap is manufactured in a factory solely funded by Dr. Mrs. Soludo, without government support, and has seen over 10,000 sachets distributed to children and nursing mothers, leading to significant improvements in their health.

The university’s decision to confer this honorary degree underscores Dr. Mrs. Soludo’s impactful contributions to humanity through her advocacy on healthy living and the “own a garden” initiatives. Her innovative formula and widespread wellness campaigns are now poised to make a broader global impact through various collaborative efforts, reinforcing the state’s progress under the Soludo administration.