By Tomiwa Akinbamire
Sickle cell disease remains one of Nigeria’s most persistent public health challenges, claiming thousands of lives annually, particularly among infants. Despite being preventable and manageable with early intervention, the disease continues to exact a heavy toll on families across the country.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria loses an estimated 100,000 infants every year to sickle cell disease, one of the highest burdens globally. Health experts say this figure reflects deep systemic gaps in the country’s healthcare delivery, especially at the primary healthcare level.
The scale of infant mortality linked to sickle cell disease has positioned it as a major national health concern requiring urgent attention from government authorities and health institutions.
Medical experts have repeatedly raised concerns over Nigeria’s response to the disease. Late Professor Olu Akinyanju, founder of the Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria, identified several structural failures contributing to the high mortality rate, including lack of political will, absence of nationwide genotype screening, and preventable sickle cell births due to inadequate genetic counseling.
Professor Obiageli E. Nnodu, a haematologist at the University of Abuja, also condemned the weak health system response to sickle cell disease. She highlighted poor funding for sickle cell care, lack of coordinated national data, and institutional gaps in patient management.
Beyond systemic challenges, Dr. Annette Akinsete, Chief Executive Officer of the Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria, drew attention to social and cultural barriers worsening patient outcomes. She cited persistent social stigma against patients, cultural misinformation, late diagnosis, and neglect as key factors undermining effective care.
Health stakeholders argue that strengthening primary healthcare is essential to reducing sickle cell–related deaths. Early screening, counseling, and consistent care at the community level are seen as critical interventions.
In response to these challenges, the WHO Nigeria Representative, Dr. Pavel Ursu, met with Abdulqadir Gambo Musa, Chief Executive Officer of Amana Sickle, to advance discussions on universal health coverage and improved sickle cell and non-communicable disease services.
With the support of partners and donors, the WHO is working with the Federal Ministry of Health to expand sickle cell services at primary and secondary health facilities, update national treatment guidelines, and accelerate multisectoral action through the National Non-Communicable Diseases Plan.
Click here to read related post
