The First Lady of Anambra State, Dr Nonye Soludo, has called for collective efforts to eradicate poverty through job creation, empowerment programmes, technology-driven initiatives, economic transformation and human capital development.
Soludo, founder of the non-governmental organisation Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, said tackling poverty required sustained commitment rather than a one-off intervention.
She made the call in a statement issued on Saturday by her media aide, Daniel Ezeigwe, to mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed annually on October 17.
The Anambra first lady said poverty extended beyond a lack of money to include limited opportunities, loss of dignity and the inability to build a better future.
She said: “Poverty isn’t just about the absence of money; it’s about the absence of opportunities, dignity and the means to build a better future for all.
“According to the 2026 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index Country Briefing by OPHI, Anambra State currently records a multidimensional poverty rate of 9.6 per cent, one of the lowest in Nigeria and the lowest in the South East.
“This is encouraging progress, but it’s also a reminder that there’s still more work to be done. Under the ‘Solution Administration,’ we remain committed to building an Anambra where prosperity is evenly shared, opportunities are accessible, and no one is left behind.
“Through job creation, practical empowerment opportunities, technology-driven initiatives, economic transformation and human capital development, we are creating pathways for Ndi Anambra to rise above poverty and achieve lasting prosperity.”
Soludo pledged that the state government would continue working to expand opportunities and improve living conditions for residents.
“We will not rest on our laurels until every Anambra citizen has a fair opportunity to live a dignified, productive, and fulfilling life,” she vowed.
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty was established by the United Nations and is observed every October 17 to highlight the links between poverty, human rights, dignity and peace.
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The 2026 observance falls under the 2026–2028 theme, “United for Peace and Human Rights,” with this year’s focus on “Safe Homes for All.”
The theme highlights adequate housing as a foundation for security, participation in society and a dignified life.
According to the United Nations, more than 2.8 billion people worldwide experience some form of housing inadequacy, with people already facing poverty and exclusion bearing the greatest burden.
The UN noted that without a safe and stable home, accessing healthcare, education and employment, as well as participating in community life, becomes more difficult.
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