Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has marked the 33rd anniversary of his marriage to his wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, with a solemn thanksgiving Mass held at his country home in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area of the state. The event, which blended faith, family, culture, and community, attracted an array of dignitaries, clergy, traditional leaders, friends, and well-wishers from within and outside Anambra State.
The anniversary celebration, which took place in an atmosphere of reverence and joy, underscored the governor’s deep commitment to family values and his strong ties to his roots. Central to the occasion was a thanksgiving Mass officiated by His Eminence, Peter Cardinal Okpaleke, the Catholic Bishop of the Ekwulobịa Diocese, who led prayers of gratitude, blessings, and continued divine guidance for the Soludo family.
In his opening remarks during the Mass, Cardinal Okpaleke emphasised the importance of gratitude to God for the gift of life, love, and companionship. He noted that sustaining a marriage for over three decades in today’s fast-paced and challenging world is a testament to faith, discipline, and shared values. He prayed for renewed strength, wisdom, and peace for the governor and his wife as they continue their journey together.
The celebration drew an intimate but distinguished gathering, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, and his wife; the Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze; the Chief Judge of Anambra State, Justice Onochie Anyachebelu, and his wife; members of the State Executive Council; lawmakers; traditional rulers; and prominent personalities from different sectors of society.
In a homily delivered during the Mass, the Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Jonas-Benson Okoye, reflected on the sanctity of marriage and the virtues required to sustain it. He described the Soludos’ 33-year union as a living testimony of God’s grace, highlighting patience, sacrifice, mutual respect, and unwavering faith as essential pillars of a successful marriage.
Bishop Okoye commended Governor Soludo and his wife for presenting a positive example to families, especially public office holders whose private lives are often under intense public scrutiny. According to him, the ability to balance public service with a stable family life reflects strong moral grounding and commitment to God-centred values.
Addressing guests after the Mass, Governor Soludo expressed profound gratitude to God for the gift of life, love, and companionship over the past 33 years. He thanked family members, friends, clergy, and well-wishers for standing with him and his wife on the special occasion. The governor took time to share reflections on their marital journey, describing it as one sustained by understanding, patience, forgiveness, and mutual support.
He noted that marriage, like governance, requires constant dialogue, sacrifice, and a shared vision. According to him, the values that have sustained his family life have also shaped his approach to leadership and service to Anambra State. He described his wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, as a dependable partner whose support and counsel have been invaluable through different phases of life.
The governor’s decision to celebrate the milestone at his country home in Isuofia was widely seen as symbolic. It reinforced his long-standing connection to his community and his belief in remaining closely linked to the grassroots, even while occupying one of the highest political offices in the state. Residents of Isuofia turned out in large numbers to identify with the celebration, offering prayers, songs, and cultural displays in honour of the couple.
Adding colour to the event were melodious hymns rendered by the church choir, as well as traditional music performed by local cultural groups from Isuofia. The blend of Christian worship and indigenous expression created a rich atmosphere that reflected both the spiritual and cultural identity of the community.
At the reception that followed the Mass, Governor Soludo and his wife shared a light-hearted dance with guests, drawing applause and cheers from the audience. The moment symbolised not just the joy of the day, but also the enduring bond between the couple after more than three decades together.
Several speakers at the event described the anniversary as more than a personal celebration, noting that it served as an inspiration to couples, families, and young people. They highlighted the importance of commitment, faith, and shared responsibility in building lasting homes, especially in a society grappling with rising social and economic pressures.
Well-wishers from across the state and beyond continued to send congratulatory messages to the governor and his wife, praising their union and wishing them many more years of happiness, good health, and fulfilment. Many described the celebration as a reflection of stability and continuity, values they said are also evident in the governor’s leadership style.
As the event drew to a close, it was clear that Governor Soludo’s 33rd wedding anniversary was not merely a private family affair, but a broader celebration of love, faith, cultural identity, and enduring values. For many in attendance, the occasion offered a reminder that amidst the demands of public office and modern life, strong family foundations remain central to personal fulfilment and societal stability.
