Former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has said that the federal government should create more awareness on sickle cell disorder.
In a message to celebrate the 2024 World Sickle Cell Day, Obi said over six million people are living with the disease in Nigeria.
He said: “On this day, set aside by the global community to mark World Sickle Cell Day, I would like to join my voice in raising awareness for the campaign against the disorder. A special day like this also allows us to show love, care and support to our brothers and sisters affected by the disorder.
“Sickle Cell Disorder remains a genetic disorder which can be avoided and wiped out from society by creating awareness of the scourge and measures to avoid it.
“This can be achieved if intending couples strictly adhere to genotype compatibility in procreation. On the global level, about 50 million people are reported to be living with Sickle Cell Disorder. With about 4-6 million people living with the disease in Nigeria, our dear nation is said to have the highest number of sickle cell carriers in the world, making it the number one sickle-cell endemic country in the world. Also, about 100,000 infants die from sickle-cell disease in Nigeria annually.
“We must, therefore, support our brothers and sisters living with sickle cell disorder, by investing in our healthcare sector, to be able to cater for their needs.
“I am happy to be represented by my team at the Day’s commemoration organised by the Association of People Living with Sickle Cell Disorder (APLSCD) in Anambra State. We will continue to support one another as we all contribute to building the New Nigeria which is possible.”
