Nigeria Reaffirms Fight Against Sickle Cell as Nation Marks World Sickle Cell Day 2025

By Pan Afric Reporters ABUJA, 19 June 2025

As the world commemorates World Sickle Cell Day 2025 under the theme “Transforming Care and Strengthening Communities”, the Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated its firm commitment to reducing the burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) through comprehensive awareness, early diagnosis, and strengthened healthcare services.

In a press release issued by the Federal Ministry of Health & Social Welfare, e-signed by the ministry’s Deputy Director, Information & Public Relations, Alaba Balogun, the government outlined bold strides and future plans aimed at curbing the devastating impact of SCD — a hereditary blood disorder that affects nearly 100 million people globally, with Nigeria bearing the heaviest burden.

“Sickle Cell Disease remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, contributing significantly to childhood and adult mortality. But it is both preventable and manageable,” the Ministry stated.

Grim Statistics, Clear Mandate

Nigeria records an estimated 150,000 infant deaths annually due to SCD — accounting for about 8% of total infant mortality. A staggering 25% of adults in the country carry the sickle cell gene, and survivors often face lifelong complications ranging from stroke to organ damage.

The Ministry emphasized that addressing SCD is integral to achieving Sustainable Development Goals related to health, poverty eradication, and quality education.

Transformative Initiatives

To confront the disease head-on, the Ministry has launched an array of strategic interventions:

• Universal Newborn Screening currently being piloted in the Southwest.
• Establishment of Six Centres of Excellence across Nigeria for diagnosis and treatment.
• Updated National Guidelines in line with WHO-AFRO recommendations.
• Integration of SCD services into primary healthcare alongside other NCDs.
• Nationwide awareness campaigns promoting genotype testing and genetic counseling.
• Deployment of the Nigeria-PEN package, targeting early detection and care.
• Multi-sectoral coordination through a newly formed national technical committee.
• PEN-Plus strategy pilot, focusing on SCD, Type 1 Diabetes, and Rheumatic Heart Disease in partnership with WHO and CHAI.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, the Federal Government is focused on:

• Scaling access to Hydroxyurea, a proven life-improving treatment.
• Expanding point-of-care screening tools to reach all levels of the health system.
• Integrating SCD services into maternal and child health programs.
• Strengthening community engagement, research, and data-driven monitoring.
• Collaborating with development partners, civil society, and the private sector for greater impact.

Hosting the Global SCD Community

Underscoring its leadership in SCD advocacy, Nigeria recently hosted the 5th Global Sickle Cell Disease Congress in Abuja. The high-profile gathering brought together international researchers, clinicians, and policymakers under the theme “Leave No One Behind”, signaling Nigeria’s global role in advancing SCD care and policy.

A National Call to Action

The Ministry called on all Nigerians to treat Sickle Cell Disease not just as a medical issue, but a societal challenge requiring collective action.

“By prioritizing genotype testing, supporting those affected, and demanding better services, we can prevent new cases and improve the lives of millions. Together, we can transform care, strengthen our communities, and ensure that no child is born into unnecessary suffering.”