Anambra First Lady Urges Expanded Opportunities for Women at APGA Gathering

I’mThe First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has advocated increased empowerment for women in society, emphasizing that empowering women strengthens families, communities, and the nation at large.
According to her, when women are empowered, society becomes stronger and the country is placed in safer and more responsible hands.
Mrs. Soludo stated that women are naturally trustworthy and dependable, noting that anything entrusted to their care is often managed with diligence and integrity.
Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, founder of the Dr. Nonye Soludo Healthy Living Initiative, made the call on Friday during the 2026 Anambra Women Summit organised by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) at the party’s regional office in Awka, the state capital.
Speaking on the theme, “Empower Her, Elevate All,” the governor’s wife stressed that empowerment must first begin with the individual through self-realisation, personal growth, and self-motivation.
She urged women to acquire skills and engage in productive ventures rather than waiting solely for external support.
According to her, the administration of Governor Charles Soludo has remained committed to policies and programmes aimed at empowering women across the state.
She added that the present administration prioritises competence and service rather than gender bias.
“What we have come here to do today is to celebrate women. Women, as I always say, are unique beings intelligent, strong, hardworking, truthful and positive. We should celebrate women every day in a special way. Women constitute a major voting population, and I am sure you are proud of our state governor.
“A happy wife makes a happy home. When a woman is happy, the home is peaceful, and the community also enjoys peace. The current administration does not see governance through the lens of gender; rather, it focuses on who is capable of delivering results. When we empower women, we empower the entire society.
“As women, we must participate actively in every sphere of life. God created women uniquely, and the responsibilities placed on our shoulders show that we have the capacity to do so much. Women are truthful, and whatever is placed in their hands is usually safe and well-managed.
“There is still a lot of work to be done in our communities, and the progress we see today is largely because women are actively involved in community development. We must also pay close attention to what happens within our homes.
“We must return to the communal spirit of being our brother’s keeper. Many things are going wrong today because people no longer look out for one another. Let us revive that culture of care and responsibility.
“I also urge women to remain focused on their responsibilities at home. In everything you do, take care of yourself, eat healthy food, exercise regularly, and drink enough water. Health is the greatest wealth. Pay attention to your mental health and be intentional about taking care of your well-being.
“We talk about inclusivity, but we must also remain healthy to contribute meaningfully. Take time to visit neighbours who are ill, and check on those you have not seen for a long time. We need one another to make society a better place,” she said.
The First Lady further advised women to be intentional and proactive in their pursuits, stressing that external assistance should only complement their efforts rather than become their sole reliance.
She highlighted various forms of empowerment, including economic empowerment, educational empowerment, health empowerment, and social empowerment, among others.
As part of the programme, she also presented the women with cash support and other empowerment materials.
“When women come together, they can influence government policies and programmes. Our governor has a listening ear and is always willing to invest in initiatives that will help achieve his vision for the state.
“We also urge women to support one another in the spirit of the APGA mantra, ‘Onye Aghana Nwanne Ya’ (Leave No One Behind). Women must comport themselves properly and manage whatever resources they are entrusted with responsibly,” she added.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Seahorse Company, Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, said the summit was organised to empower women and equip them with the knowledge and skills required to become self-reliant and influential leaders in society.
Onunkwo urged the women to remain responsible citizens, demonstrate good character, and lead by example in their various communities.
He further encouraged them to continue supporting the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, and his vision of making Anambra a liveable and prosperous homeland.
In separate remarks earlier, the Anambra State APGA Women Leader, Esther Onyekezi, expressed appreciation to all those who contributed to the success of the event.
She also reiterated the unwavering support and solidarity of the women with the Soludo administration and the APGA as a political party.
The highlight of the event was a colourful march past by APGA women from the 21 local government areas of the state. At the end of the exercise, the women from Ogbaru Local Government Area emerged first, Awka North Local Government Area came second, while Idemili North Local Government Area took third place.
The winners went home with various cash prizes and other gift items.