By Ovat Abeng
Wife of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Mrs Nonye Soludo has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Public Health and Nutrition by Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University COOU, Igbariam, Anambra State.
The conferment ceremony took place at the University’s convocation arena Igbariam, on Saturday.
It was gathered that Mrs Soludo was honoured with the award for championing healthy lifestyle in the state through her NGO, Healthy Living with Nonye.
The Varsity also award higher degrees and honorary doctorate to other distinguished personalities in the state, including the South East Chairman of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Lady Ada Chukwudozie, the traditional ruler of Ogidi kingdom, Igwe Alex Onyido; business men, Engr Chidozie Mbanefo and Chief Christopher Ndubuisi.
In her address, Acting Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Kate Azuka Omenugha said the award, which is dubbed Ojukwu Legacy Award was to encourage people who have distinguished themselves in several field.
The VC appreciated members of the University community and other guests for honoring the Varsity’s invitation.
Governor Soludo, who was also at the event commended his predecessor, Late Dr Chinwoke Mbadinuju for founding Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University in the year 2000 during his administration, describing him as a visionary leader that has not been adequately celebrated.
Soludo praised late Mbadinuju as a great leader whose foresight led to the establishment of an institution that has since become a source of pride for the state.
He said: “This 25th anniversary of the university we are celebrating today was the brainchild of a remarkable man,”
“Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, the first civilian governor of Anambra State between 1999 and 2003, is the founder of this university. Yet, he has not been properly honored for this contribution.” he said.
Soludo recalled that the university originally started at the Uli campus, a vision brought to life by Mbadinuju’s dedication.
“May his soul rest in peace. I believe Anambra State has not done enough to celebrate him. We will find a meaningful way to immortalize the founder of this university, Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju,” he assured.
The governor emphasized the need for the state government to recognize Mbadinuju’s legacy more fully, ensuring that his contributions are remembered and celebrated appropriately.
Also speaking, the leading aspirant of the All Progressive Grand Alliance APGA, in the awaiting Anambra South Senatorial District bye election, High Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, while congratulating Mrs Soludo for the honoured, promised to extend his legislative gesture to the State University, if elected to represent the district at the National Assembly Abuja.
In her brief acceptance speech, Mrs Soludo also promised to continue her support for the growth and development of the University.