World Sickle Cell Day: Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Transforming Care and Strenghtening Communities
As the global health community commemorates 2025 World Sickle Cell Day, the Federal Government has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to reducing the burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) through enhanced awareness, prevention, early diagnosis and quality care.
“Sickle Cell Disease is a severe, inherited blood disorder affecting nearly 100 million people globally, with Sub-Saharan Africa bearing the highest burden. It accounts for over 50% of deaths among individuals with the most severe form (Hb SS), making it the most prevalent genetic condition in the WHO African Region. In Nigeria, SCD significantly contributes to mortality in both children and adults.”
In a statement by the Head, Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mr. Alaba Balogun, approximately 25% of adults in Nigeria carry the sickle cell gene, contributing to around 150,000 infant deaths annually due to SCD, which accounts for about 8% of the country’s infant mortality. Survivors often face chronic complications like organ damage, stroke, and increased infection susceptibility. The disease’s psychosocial and economic impact is substantial, affecting education, employment, mental health, and social inclusion.
Despite these challenges, SCD remains preventable and manageable. However, systemic gaps- such as limited public awareness, inadequate screening, and shortage of trained personnel – continue to hinder progress. Addressing SCD is key to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 (No Poverty), 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 4 (Quality Education)
According to the Statement, the following are National Milestones and Strategic Interventions made by the Ministry to combat Sickle Cell Disease (SCD):
1. Training Primary Health Care (PHC) workers for Universal Newborn Screening in the Southwest geopolitical zone.
2. Developing a National Desk Guide and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for newborn screening.
3. Establishing six Centres of Excellence, one in each geopolitical zone, for SCD screening and management.
4. Reviewing National Guidelines for SCD prevention and control, incorporating WHO-AFRO recommendations.
5. Integrating SCD services into primary healthcare alongside other priority Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
6. Developing Nigeria’s Package of Essential NCD Interventions (Nigeria-PEN) with provisions for genetic counseling and screening.
7. Establishing a Multi-Sectoral Action Plan (MSAP) Technical Committee for national coordination.
8. Nationwide advocacy campaigns for genotype testing and genetic counseling.
9. Pilot implementation of PEN-Plus strategies focusing on SCD, Type 1 Diabetes, and Rheumatic Heart Disease.
Forward-Looking Priorities
The government is committed to expanding and institutionalizing SCD care through:
>- Revitalizing and upgrading the six SCD Centres for comprehensive care.
>- Introducing point-of-care screening technologies for newborns and older age groups.
– Scaling up Hydroxyurea therapy to reduce complications.
>- Integrating SCD services into maternal and child health programs.
– Strengthening community engagement and mass mobilization.
>- Enhancing research, monitoring, and evaluation systems.
>- Partnering with development partners, civil society, and the private sector.
Hosting the 5th Global SCD Congress
Nigeria recently hosted the 5th Global Sickle Cell Disease Congress in Abuja, convening researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and advocates to strategize on reducing the global SCD burden.
National Call to Action
Sickle Cell Disease requires collective responsibility. By prioritizing genotype testing, supporting affected individuals, and advocating for improved services, we can reduce new cases and improve outcomes.
Together, let us transform care, strengthen communities, and build a future where no child suffers from a preventable condition.
