By Michael Ovat
The Wife of the Anambra State Governor and Founder of Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo, has called on Nigerians to preserve and promote their indigenous cultures, languages and values as vital tools for sustainable development and national identity.
She made the call through her senior media aide, Daniel Ezeigwe, in Awka, on Tuesday, to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.
Mrs Soludo said this year’s global theme, “Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Safeguarding Life and Well-being,” highlights the invaluable contributions of indigenous knowledge and traditional caregivers to the health, survival and continuity of communities across the world. She noted that the annual observance also serves as a reminder of the need to protect indigenous peoples, their rights and their rich cultural heritage.
According to her, Anambra State remains committed to preserving the Igbo language, culture and traditions through deliberate policies and programmes that encourage younger generations to embrace their roots. She stressed that indigenous knowledge systems, when properly harnessed, can complement modern development efforts in areas such as healthcare, nutrition, environmental sustainability and community development.
The Anambra first lady further explained that her Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative aligns with the promotion of healthy lifestyles by encouraging nutritious indigenous foods, local agricultural practices and community-based wellness. She said the initiative has consistently demonstrated that many indigenous practices, particularly in food and nutrition, contribute significantly to disease prevention and improved public health.
Mrs Soludo urged parents, schools, traditional institutions and community leaders to work together in preserving indigenous languages, customs and values, warning that the erosion of cultural identity could undermine the nation’s social cohesion and historical heritage. She maintained that every citizen has a role to play in ensuring that Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage is passed on to future generations.
She congratulated indigenous communities across Nigeria and the world on the occasion of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples and reaffirmed her commitment to promoting initiatives that protect culture, strengthen healthy living and advance the well-being of families and communities. She also called for greater recognition of indigenous knowledge and traditions as important assets for inclusive development and national progress.
