Can Charles Soludo please set the ball rolling by becoming the first governor in Nigeria to open a shoe bank

Ayo Akinfe

[1] Across sub-Saharan Africa, it is estimated that about 20m children walk about barefoot

[2] In Nigeria, we so not have precise figures but with about 80m people living below the poverty line, you can just imagine how many barefoot kids we have walking around the country

[3] According to Helping Hand for Relief and Development, the threat of being barefoot lies in the exposure to sharp objects, harmful bacteria or infections in the soil and contaminated stagnant water and most days burning heat on the ground kids walk on

[4] In addition, intestinal worms such as hookworms can make their way into the skin more easily. Without immediate and proper treatment, these infections can lead to chronic illness, amputations and death

[5] Helping Hand for Relief and Development actually distributes shoes to those in need. Shoes are collected and sorted at its collection centers and are then shipped out to the country of need

[6] Despite being overlooked, shoes play a vital role in everyday life. For many African parents, the frightening reality lies in the decision between buying food or shoes. for their kids

[7] Does anyone know how many Almajiris lack shoes in Nigeria?

[8] I would argue that we need a National Used Shoe Bank where those without footwear can go to at least get a pair of slippers

[9] Prof Soludo has started off well as governor. Can he please take this a step further by creating an Anambra State Shoe Bank. Everyone should hand in their second hand shoes, for onward distribution

[10] Just imagine how a governor will go down in history if he ends the menace of barefoot children in Nigeria. He will etch his name in gold!