First Lady of Anambra State, Dr Nonye Soludo, Honoured with Doctorate for Public Health Advocacy

 

Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam, marked a major milestone in its journey as a citadel of learning with a colourful celebration of its 25th anniversary and combined 11th to 15th convocation ceremony. The event, held on Saturday, became even more significant with the conferment of an honorary Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) in Food Science and Nutrition on Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo, First Lady of Anambra State.

Dr Soludo, a leading voice in health education and wellness in the state, was recognised for her outstanding contributions to public health and her tireless efforts in promoting a culture of healthy living. Her initiative, “Healthy Living with Nonye,” has become a touchstone for community-based programmes that educate people on nutrition, dietetics, physical activity, and sustainable environmental practices.

The Acting Vice Chancellor of COOU, Professor Kate Omenugha, formally presented the honorary degree, alongside ceremonial robes and a commemorative plaque, during the well-attended ceremony. She lauded the First Lady’s impactful health campaigns that have reached thousands across Anambra State, arming them with the knowledge and motivation to embrace healthier lifestyles.

Professor Omenugha did not hold back her praise as she highlighted the First Lady’s unwavering commitment to wellness, calling her “a beacon of transformative public engagement.” She further expressed gratitude to the Anambra State Government for playing a key role in the university's progress, particularly in areas such as infrastructure development and the consistent running of its academic programmes without disruption.

Adding to the day’s momentum, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, human rights advocate and Pro-Chancellor of COOU, unveiled the university's ambitious strategic roadmap for the next 25 years. The plan outlines the institution’s vision for expanding academic reach, enhancing research capabilities, and deepening community engagement. He urged the broader public and alumni to rally behind the university’s mission and support its next phase of growth.

Governor of Anambra State and Visitor to the university, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, delivered a goodwill message that celebrated the institution’s journey since its founding. He paid tribute to former Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju for establishing the university and commended successive governments for their stewardship in nurturing it to its current stature.

His address also contained a clarion call to the private sector to play a more active role in advancing tertiary education. According to Governor Soludo, sustainable academic excellence in Nigeria depends not just on public funding but also on strong partnerships with business leaders, investors, and innovators. He encouraged them to channel resources into academic infrastructure, research, and technology—creating a dynamic ecosystem that aligns with global standards and industry needs.

Following the conferment of the honorary doctorate, Governor Soludo took to his verified social media accounts to express pride in his wife’s achievement. He described the recognition as a well-deserved honour and a testament to her passion for health education and community welfare.

The convocation ceremony at COOU stood not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also as a reaffirmation of the role education plays in social transformation. By honouring Dr Nonye Soludo, the university amplified a powerful message—that advocacy, wellness, and community health are as vital to nation-building as conventional academic pursuits.

With a blend of tradition, recognition, and forward-looking optimism, COOU’s 25th anniversary celebration laid a strong foundation for the university's aspirations and reaffirmed its role as a cornerstone of academic and societal progress in Anambra State and beyond.

Warmest congratulations to my darling wife, Nonye Soludo (@NonyeSoludo), on being conferred with a Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) in Food and Nutrition by the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU)

This recognition is a testament to her tireless advocacy for healthy… pic.twitter.com/BzpeyHCx0m

— Chukwuma Charles SOLUDO, CFR (@CCSoludo) May 24, 2025