FG Reaffirms Commitment To Tackling Sickle Cell Disease

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving care, treatment and support for people living with sickle cell disease across the country.

The assurance was given during activities marking the 2026 World Sickle Cell Day, themed, “Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Disease.”

Representing the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, described sickle cell disease as a major public health challenge that continues to affect thousands of Nigerians.

She said the government remains committed to strengthening policies and programmes aimed at improving early diagnosis, expanding access to quality healthcare, promoting newborn screening, enhancing genetic counselling and ensuring comprehensive treatment for people living with the condition.

Officials of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare also emphasised the need for increased public awareness, improved healthcare services and stronger collaboration among stakeholders to reduce the burden of the disease.

Development partners reaffirmed their support for Nigeria’s efforts to combat sickle cell disease through research, advocacy, capacity building and interventions targeted at improving survival rates and the quality of life of affected persons.

The event also provided an opportunity for survivors and people living with sickle cell disease to share their experiences, highlighting the challenges associated with the condition and the importance of affordable and timely healthcare.

Participants called for increased investment in sickle cell programmes, wider access to genotype testing and sustained advocacy to eliminate stigma and ensure equitable healthcare for all affected persons.