Nonye Soludo has praised nurses across Nigeria for their vital contributions to the healthcare system, describing them as compassionate professionals who provide not only medical care but also emotional support and hope to patients.
The First Lady of Anambra State made the remarks in a statement issued on Tuesday to mark the 2026 International Nurses Day, observed globally on May 12.
She is the founder of the NGO Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, through which she advocates for healthier lifestyles and improved public health awareness.
This year’s celebration was themed “Our Nurses, Our Future – Empowered Nurses Save Lives.”
Soludo described nurses as “unsung heroes” whose dedication, resilience, and professionalism continue to strengthen healthcare delivery systems in Nigeria and beyond.
“Today, we celebrate the unsung heroes whose compassion and dignity speak louder than words — our nurses,” she said.
She noted that nurses play a central role in patient recovery, often providing comfort during difficult moments and offering care that goes beyond medical treatment.
“Behind every recovering patient is a dedicated nurse who stayed awake through the night, offered reassurance in moments of fear and anxiety, and gave care with patience, strength, and love,” she added.
Soludo emphasised that nurses contribute not only through treatment but also by restoring dignity, hope, and humanity in healthcare environments.
“Their service goes beyond medicine; they bring hope, comfort, and humanity to healthcare and our society,” she stated.
She also commended nurses in Anambra and across Nigeria for their sacrifices, urging them to remain committed to quality healthcare delivery despite challenges in the system.
“Your commitment continues to save lives, strengthen families, and uphold the dignity of our communities every single day,” she said.
International Nurses Day is observed annually to recognise the global contributions of nurses and to highlight the importance of investing in healthcare workers to strengthen health systems worldwide.
