Collaborative efforts of healthcare providers, governments and international organisations have been identified as essential in supporting sickle cell patients and delivery of equitable healthcare to them.

Wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, stated this during the commemoration of 2024 World Sickle Cell Day, with the theme, “Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally”, organised by her pet project, Ajose Foundation and Aglow Sickle Cell Club, to sensitize people about sickle cell, at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.

Mrs. Abiodun, noted that the theme of the event was apt, as it emphasised the importance and effectiveness of speaking with one voice to advance Sickle Cell care, saying it was a call to unite the sickle cell community, to raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage those affected by the disorder.

"Sickle Cell Disease (CSD) affects millions worldwide, transcending race and ethnicity, with a significant proportion of affected individuals in Africa. According to the WHO, Nigeria accounts for about 33 percent of the 300,000 children diagnosed every year with the disease. We can expect that a good number of such children will be born in Ogun State, as our own Ministry of Health has said that 25 percent of the country's total population are carriers of genes that give rise to the genetic disorder.

"The recent approval of gene therapies in America marks a significant milestone in SCD treatment, offering hope for a cure. However, for us in Africa, we must work even harder to improve accessibility and affordability of these treatments for all patients", she said.

The First Lady said the disease does not only negatively impact the patient, but also the entire family, explaining that parents often bear the emotional and financial toll of caring for a sick child and watching a loved one in severe pain and other complications.

She pointed out that the day serves as a reminder of the daily challenges faced by sickle cell patients, calling for urgent action in the area of education, sensitisation and enlightenment to checkmate the genetic disorder in the state and the world at large.

While lauding Governor Dapo Abiodun-led administration for improving access to quality healthcare in the state, Founder, Aglow Sickle Cell Club, Dr. (Mrs.) Funke Oyeneye, informed that Ogun was the first state in the federation to have Health Insurance Scheme for sickle cell patients and pregnant women.

She enjoined individuals and corporate bodies to continue to amplify the voices of patients and families affected by the disease, appealing for support from patient advocacy groups in creating awareness and reducing stigma.

The event had in attendance children and adults living with sickle cell anaemia across the state, with side attractions which include, sickle cell diary, drama, poem, talent hunt and quiz competition.