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Nigeria has highest rate of Sickle Cell Disorders worldwide

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By Ifeoma Ikem

 

The Chairman Sickle Cell Foundation of Nigeria, Prof Olu Akinyanju says Nigeria has the highest incidence of Sickle Cell Disorders (SCD) world wide.

Akinyanju who said this while marking this year’s World Sickle Cell day, said it is a day set aside to raise awareness about all aspects of Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD).

He noted that SCD is the world’s most common Genetic Disorder and called on government at all levels, private sector, international organization,individuals including persons with SCD, their families and friends and orders to be aware and act as best as possible.

“Over 150,000 babies are born every year in Nigeria,while about 40 million Nigerians are healthy carriers of the sickle cell gene.

“Many of them, especially from poorly informed families, do not live beyond childhood”.

He added that recently the foundation held some events like Webinar, Sickle Cell Champions Club,Virtual Panel Discussion and Global Virtual Dance/Dance Competition to create awareness about the disorder.

“Through Webinar, the foundation partnered with the US-based NGO on rare diseases-PRDPF which was hosted globally on the theme” Sickle Cell Disorder the New Frontier.

“The experts assured participants that with the on going clinical trials, the future is bright for persons with sickle cell disorder.

The Don added that while celebrating 2021 Sickle Cell world day, the Sickle Cell Foundation of Nigeria has established a bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Centre in partnership with Lagos Teaching Hospital (LUTH) for the treatment of Sickle Cell Disorder .

“The comprehensive state of the art BMT centre will ensure that the life changing cure is available and accessible in Nigeria “and attract patients from other parts of the world, a reverse medical tourism shift.

“Also, free drugs and foodstuff were distributed as palliative to persons with sickle cell and their families.

The National Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation, Dr Annette Akinsete said they are happy to announce to persons with sickle cell disorder that it has cure as the foundation has established the bone marrow centre in Nigeria.

“I am glad we raised the awareness, though we did not do much last year in reaching out to the communities within the state due to Covid-19 pandemic but more people are knowing about the foundation through the awareness and other programmes from the centre that reached people in the rural areas.

” This year is the 13th edition, gladly not just sickle cell foundation but other coalition NGOs decide to come together with the theme “Knowledge is power” to mark this year world sickle cell day.

“Globally, there are important days being celebrated annually which come with kits, it may be on education, medical talkshow but it sensitizes and engages the stakeholder.

Pastor (Mrs) Atinuke Adeleye, Founder of the Sickle Cell Champion’s Club, said the club is to encourage persons with sickle cell disorder to live a normal life like other people.

According to her, the club is where persons with sickle cell disorder come together to share views or ideas about the control of Sickle Cell Disorder in Nigeria.

“This helps for effective solution to the problems associated with the sickle cell and related Disorder in Nigeria.

“Pain is pain, everybody, everyone feels pain, we the sickle cell disorder have hope we will live she added..

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APC Ondo North Primary: Reports Show ATM in Early Lead

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Reports from the field in Ondo North Senatorial District indicate that voters, officers, and agents at the voting centers across the wards have put Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM) in the lead.

According to the current figures collated from the centers, ATM is polling with wider margins of votes

Going by these figures, ATM is poised to win all the six Local Government in the Senatorial Districtt.

We urge all party members and supporters to remain peaceful as collation continues.

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Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele Hosts Ondo North Aspirant Abdul Tunji Mohammed, Backs Grassroots Development Agenda

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Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele recently hosted Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), a prominent aspirant for the Ondo North senatorial seat.

The meeting highlighted a strategic alignment between progressive forces, with both leaders emphasizing a shared vision for grassroots development and legislative excellence.

Senator Bamidele, a respected figure in Nigerian politics, is recognized for his contributions to national cohesion and impactful policymaking, drawing on his experience as a legal luminary and human rights activist.

Chief Mohammed, an astute businessman and dedicated grassroots mobilizer, has made a notable impact on Ondo North through his philanthropic work and commitment to constituents’ welfare. His approach blends corporate discipline, economic ingenuity, and a deep concern for people—qualities that have reshaped the region’s political narrative.

The two leaders discussed the district’s critical needs, exploring avenues for socioeconomic growth, legislative reform, and stronger community integration. Senator Bamidele stressed the importance of supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, a sentiment echoed by Chief Mohammed.

The convergence of Chief Mohammed’s vision with Senator Bamidele’s legislative experience offers hope for Ondo North. This synergy between grassroots ambition and seasoned mentorship points to a promising future for the district’s representation in the Senate. With ATM’s drive and the guidance of leaders like Senator Bamidele, Ondo North is positioned for progress and transformative governance.

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2027 Ondo North Senate: ATM secures Backing of Monarchs, Chiefs

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APC Senatorial aspirant for Ondo North, Abdul Tunji Mohammed, popularly known as ATM, received a resounding endorsement on Thursday during a high-profile visit to Ikare-Akoko.

The endorsement came from the Olukare of Ikare, His Royal Majesty Oba Akadiri Momoh IV, the Owa Ale of Ikare, His Royal Majesty Oba Adeleke Adedoyin, and the Ikare Council of Chiefs, who described ATM as a credible son of the soil with the capacity to represent Ondo North effectively at the Senate.

Speaking at the palace, the Olukare commended ATM for his consistent engagement with the people and his track record in business and community development. “We have watched your contributions to Ondo North over the years. You are one of us, and we believe you have the experience and character to speak for our people in Abuja,” the monarch said.

The Owa Ale, in his remarks, stressed the need for unity and quality representation. He urge him to continue the help to the people at home that he’s doing. He urged other stakeholders to support aspirants with proven commitment to the district’s progress, noting that Ikare and Akoko land require strong voices at the National Assembly.

In his response, Abdul Tunji Mohammed thanked the monarchs and chiefs for their blessings and trust. He reaffirmed his commitment to prioritize infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and agricultural development if elected.

“Ikare is central to Ondo North, and your support strengthens my resolve to serve with integrity and results. I will not betray this trust. My campaign will remain issue-based, and my representation will reflect the hopes of our people,” ATM stated.

The visit was marked by prayers, cultural displays, and solidarity from party leaders, youth, and women groups across Ikare-Akoko.

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