The wife of Anambra State governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has said detecting HIV infection early enough can help greatly in managing the disease and, most importantly, guaranteeing continued existence.
Soludo, who is also the founder of the ‘Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo’, said beating the phobia of HIV tests is something everyone must prioritise, adding that living with HIV is neither an “unfortunate incarceration nor a death sentence.”
The Anambra First Lady stated this in a press statement she issued on Monday, as part of a message and efforts to commemorate World AIDS Day 2025, saying that urgent action and caution must be taken to stop the spread of the disease.
The statement read in part, “People living with HIV are humans like you and me. Nothing makes them unfortunate and less human, who should be treated with disdain and hate.
“We all have a responsibility to protect and accommodate them, whether at home, school, work, or worship places, or elsewhere.
“Living with HIV is neither an unfortunate incarceration nor a death sentence. Yet again, it’s really important that everyone remains extra cautious of any affair that can lead to HIV transmission. The keyword here is caution.
“We should also remember that routine tests really help a great deal. Beating that phobia for HIV tests is something you must prioritise.
“Like most sicknesses, detecting HIV infection early enough can help greatly in managing the disease and, most importantly, guaranteeing your continued existence.
“Whatever should be done to stop the spread of HIV and AIDS must really start with us. Let’s say YES to action!”
PUNCH Online in October reported that the wife Mrs Soludo led a ‘Healthy Living Walk’ across communities in the state to promote physical fitness as well as raise awareness on healthy eating and disease prevention.
The walk, which began in Aroma in Awka, brought together government officials, health workers, students and residents who walked through major streets in the state capital and into various communities.
She described physical fitness and healthy eating as a preventative measure against diseases like cardiovascular issues, and stressed the importance of good nutrition for both children and adults.
Speaking shortly after the exercise, the Anambra first lady expressed excitement that communities in the state are now emphasising that physical exercise should be viewed as medicine for healing and well-being.