Mrs. Nonye Soludo, wife of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Public Health and Nutrition by Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in Igbariam, Anambra State.The ceremony was held at the university’s convocation grounds on Saturday. According to reports, Mrs. Soludo received this recognition for her advocacy of healthy living across the state through her organization, *Healthy Living with Nonye*.
In addition to her honor, the university conferred other prestigious degrees and honorary titles upon notable individuals in the region, including Lady Ada Chukwudozie, the Southeast Chair of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria; Igwe Alex Onyido, traditional ruler of Ogidi Kingdom; as well as entrepreneurs Engr. Chidozie Mbanefo and Chief Christopher Ndubuisi.
During the event, Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha highlighted that the award, named the *Ojukwu Legacy Award*, aims to recognize and motivate individuals who have made significant contributions in their fields.
Prof. Omenugha also expressed gratitude to attendees and members of the university community for their participation.
Governor Soludo, who was present at the celebration, paid tribute to his predecessor, the late Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, emphasizing his role in establishing COOU in 2000 during his administration. He described Mbadinuju as a visionary leader whose efforts are yet to be fully celebrated.
The governor reflected on the university’s origins at the Uli campus, a testament to Mbadinuju’s dedication, and called for more recognition of his contributions, stating, “This 25th anniversary is a celebration of a remarkable man’s vision. We need to do more to honor Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju’s legacy.”
He further pledged to ensure that Mbadinuju’s role in founding the university is immortalized, urging the government to celebrate him adequately.
Also in attendance was High Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, a leading candidate for the upcoming Anambra South Senatorial District bye-election under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). He congratulated Mrs. Soludo on her award and pledged legislative support for Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University if elected to the National Assembly.
In her brief acceptance speech, Mrs. Soludo committed to ongoing efforts to promote the development and growth of the university.