By Ovat Abeng
The need of prioritising healthcare providers’ interests in improving Anambra healthcare system was the high point at the State Primary Health Care Development Agency’s Excellence Award ceremony held at the Light House Awka, on Wednesday, where the State governor’s wife, Mrs Nonye Soludo was honoured with Health Care Leadership Challenge Award alongside other dignitaries for their various contribution to the sector development.
In her acceptance speech, Mrs Soludo said the interest of healthcare providers must be made paramount if Nigeria’s healthcare system must be strengthened.
She described the honoured as a powerful affirmation of her commitment to building a healthcare system in the state through her NGO, (Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo Initiative).
According to her, I’ m delighted to be here today for the Anambra State Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge Award and Recognition Ceremony.
“This event is a powerful affirmation of our collective commitment to building a healthcare system that is responsive, accountable, innovative, and people-centered.
“But first of all, let me commend the Ministry of Health, the Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency, partners, and stakeholders for instituting this challenge, which recognizes excellence in leadership and service delivery at the grassroots level.
“By celebrating outstanding performance, we inspire greater dedication and reinforce the values that drive sustainable development in our health sector.
“Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Anambra State has, unarguably, witnessed remarkable progress in primary healthcare delivery.
“Through strategic investments in health infrastructure, the recruitment and training of healthcare personnel, the upgrading of our primary healthcare centres, improved access to essential medicines, and strengthened maternal and child health services, the administration has continued to reposition healthcare as a critical pillar of sustainable development.
“Across our communities, residents are increasingly experiencing improved access to quality healthcare services, reflecting the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.
“As the founder of Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, I understand firsthand the importance of strong primary healthcare systems in improving the wellbeing of families and communities.
“Primary healthcare remains the bedrock of disease prevention, health promotion, maternal and child care, immunization, nutrition, and community health education.
“This is why we have continued to complement government efforts through interventions and partnerships that promote healthy living, support mothers and children, strengthen nutrition awareness, and encourage preventive healthcare practices.
“Today’s award ceremony recognizes leaders whose commitment, hard work, and innovation have contributed significantly to advancing these goals within their local government areas.
“As we honour the award recipients, let us remember that excellence is not a destination but a continuous journey. The recognition being bestowed today should serve as both an appreciation of past achievements and an encouragement to strive for even greater impact.
“Together, government, healthcare workers, development partners, community leaders, and citizens must continue to work hand in hand to strengthen our primary healthcare system and improve health outcomes for all.
“I congratulate all the awardees and thank every stakeholder whose efforts continue to make Anambra a model for quality healthcare delivery.
“May we remain steadfast in our shared pursuit of a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous Anambra State,” Mrs Soludo concluded.
