By Ovat Abeng
In order to mark the 2026 celebration of Hypertension Day, the Anambra State Government, through the State Ministry of Health, has introduced free hypertension checks across primary healthcare centres and general hospitals in the state.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Ben Obidike, who disclosed this during a press briefing held in Awka on Tuesday, May 19th, 2026 said that the commemoration provides them with another opportunity to raise awareness about hypertension, which is one of the deadliest non-communicable diseases in society.
Dr. Obidike reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s administration to partnering with partners and stakeholders in eradicating hypertension threats.
He said that hypertension is the main cause of cardiovascular disease, and about one billion people are living with it globally.
According to him, the administration of Gov. Soludo identified it as a health threat, and his ministry is currently carrying out an aggressive campaign against the disease.
He explained that the current administration has introduced the Solution Know Your Number to checkmate hypertension.
“We have mapped out a proactive measure for adequate sensitization of Ndi Anambra to access medications they need for effective management and treatment of BP.
According to him, the checks are free of charge for every resident irrespective of tribe, ethnic and religion affiliations and the gesture is currently ongoing across the state owned hospitals, including Chukwuemeka Odumegewu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital Amaku -Awka and the General Hospital Enugwukwu.
“What we are doing is in line with what the governor’s wife, Mrs Nonye Soludo is consistently advocating on with her NGO, “Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo ” in the state.
He urged the people to be checking their BP on weekly basis, eat diet meals, exercise and reduce excessive consumption of alcohol to avoid sudden death.
The Commissioner commended the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Population Services International (PSI), for their support while noting that untreated hypertension could lead to kidney disease and stroke.
He specially, thanked gov Soludo for making health sector major priority of his administration.
The State Non-Communicable Disease Coordinator, Mrs. Adaku Ego, said that they have mapped out many events to commemorate the day, including free screening and treatment that commenced on May 17 and ended on May 19th, 2026 and road sensitization shows educating the public on hypertension.
The theme of the celebration is “Controlling Hypertension Together”, Check your blood pressure regularly and defeat the silent killer.
Representatives from WHO, PSI and the Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency were also present during the briefing.
