The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has issued an urgent plea for collective action to combat the rising diabetes epidemic across Nigerian communities. In a statement released on Friday to mark World Diabetes Day, the First Lady warned that diabetes remains a major health crisis in Nigeria, with “official data showing over three million people in the country are living with the disease.”

She emphasized that lifestyle choices are central to controlling the condition, noting, “Controlling the diabetes epidemic in our communities is a task that demands both hands. While routine medical checks are essential, the primary step is to observe our lifestyles more carefully. Lifestyle choices can kill or save.”

Dr. Soludo highlighted the impact of diet on health outcomes, saying, “A large chunk of what we consume today is really killing us. We must pay closer attention to whatever goes into our body, whether as food, drinks, or whatever. This is where Healthy Living plays the biggest part. Diabetes has infiltrated our homes because we’ve preferred junk and unhealthy foods over the natural gifts we’ve been blessed with. We must reflect deeply if we are serious about winning this ever‑raging war.”

Earlier in October, Nigeriawatch reported that she led a *‘Healthy Living Walk’* across Anambra communities to promote physical fitness, raise awareness about healthy eating, and encourage disease prevention. The walk, which began in Aroma, Awka, drew government officials, health workers, students, and residents who marched through major streets and into various neighborhoods.

After the walk, she reiterated the importance of physical fitness as a preventive measure, stressing good nutrition for both children and adults. “Part of our efforts at _‘Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo’_ is leading intense advocacy for physically fit, safe, healthy, and secure homes and communities in Anambra State. This is what I do every day – I start my day with a walk, and this has been happening across Anambra State. Through my initiative, all local government areas conduct physical exercise early in the morning. Now communities are joining too; some do it on Monday mornings. I am so happy our people are embracing it because health is the greatest wealth.”

She added, “For me, whatever you do in life, you should treat your health as your number one job. The people of Anambra are doing that, and I am delighted to see them taking care of their health. We do this every Saturday, and many are following suit in their local government areas.”