- Enrols Hundreds For Free Healthcare
BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
THE Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting both global and local efforts in combating the burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). This is as the state unveiled fresh action points, strategic partnerships, and renewed advocacy at the 2025 World Sickle Cell Day commemoration held at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat, Asaba.
Speaking at the event, the First Lady of Delta State and Founder of the You Matter Foundation, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, represented by Mrs Ewuma Erijo, called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that awareness about SCD reaches the grassroots.
“Sickle Cell Disease is not a death sentence, but a reminder of the importance of knowing your genotype,” she said. “We must intensify efforts to prevent new cases through education and responsible health choices.”
Joining her voice in support of the fight, former First Lady of Delta State and Founder of the 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa marked the day with impactful donations. She announced the enrolment of 200 more persons living with SCD into the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), granting them access to affordable and continuous medical care.
“We previously registered 380 individuals living with SCD. Today, we’re adding 200 more. This initiative ensures that children living with this condition have a better chance at a healthy life,” she stated, urging more individuals to enrol in the scheme for quality healthcare access.
Representing the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onajaeme, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Philomena Okeowo, acknowledged the painful realities faced by sickle cell patients, from frequent hospitalisations to life-threatening complications, while celebrating their strength and resilience.
The Commissioner emphasised the significance of the 2025 theme: “Tell It Loud – Share, Celebrate, Advocate,” urging communities to share survivor stories, advocate for policy reforms, and push for equitable access to care.
He noted the government’s ongoing partnerships with stakeholders, including the 05 Foundation, World Health Organisation (WHO), and others, to ensure broader access to screening, counselling, and treatment services.
“Self-advocacy is not just a slogan — it is a survival strategy,” he said. “Let us act locally and connect globally to build a future where no child is born into avoidable pain, and no life is limited by lack of access or understanding.”
Also addressing the gathering, the World Health Organisation (WHO), Delta State Coordinator, Dr. Moisule Ganga, represented by WHO focal person, Edith Akwevagbe, described June 19 as more than a commemorative date. Rather, he said, it is a platform to “amplify voices, celebrate resilience, and push for systemic change.”
He shared sobering global statistics: “7.7 million people affected worldwide, over 376,000 deaths annually, including 81,100 children under five”. Nigeria, he noted, bore the highest burden, with about 150,000 babies born with SCD every year, and four to six million Nigerians living with the condition.
“In Delta State, although precise data is limited, hospital-based estimates indicate a 1–3 per cent prevalence rate, worsened by late diagnosis and inadequate access to care. Early newborn screening; Genetic counselling; Integration of SCD services into Primary Health Care and Community-level education and advocacy.
“Together, we can reduce the burden of Sickle Cell Disease and build a healthier, more equitable future for all,” he concluded.
The Highlight of the event was the cutting of the cake and the presentation of a cheque and essential medication for SCD.
