… Says NDDC’s intervention gives hope to Niger Delta families

In commemoration of World Sickle Cell Day, the Founder of Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland–Nigeria (SCAIIN), Esther Onolememen, has underscored the need to collaborate to give better health care to sickle cell patients.

Onolememen hailed the resilience of persons living with sickle cell disorder and their caregivers.
She described individuals living with sickle cell disorder as warriors whose daily struggles and triumphs continue to inspire communities, healthcare providers, policymakers, and advocates around the world.

Onolememen, in her goodwill message noted that despite the physical, emotional, and social challenges associated with the disorder, thousands of families across the Niger Delta and beyond have continued to demonstrate remarkable courage, determination, and hope.

She also commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its growing commitment to improving the lives of affected families across the region.

Reflecting on progress made over the past year, Onolememen said collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, communities, development partners, and government institutions had begun to yield tangible results in awareness creation, access to healthcare services, and support for affected families.

According to her, the collective efforts of stakeholders have demonstrated that meaningful change can be achieved when communities unite around a common cause.

She particularly applauded the Board and Management of the NDDC, led by its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for what she described as visionary leadership and compassion towards vulnerable populations in the region.
Onolememen said the Commission’s support had enabled unprecedented outreach initiatives that brought sickle cell awareness campaigns, education programmes, screening services, and healthcare interventions directly to communities across the Niger Delta.

She stated that many families who previously felt neglected and underserved were now finding renewed hope through the interventions.

“Living with sickle cell disorder is far more than a medical journey. It is a daily testament to resilience, perseverance, and strength. Our warriors and their families continue to inspire us through their courage and unwavering belief that a brighter future is possible.

“History has been made through the NDDC’s support in taking sickle cell awareness, education, and healthcare interventions directly to communities across the Niger Delta. This commitment has brought hope to many families who have long felt unseen and underserved,” she said.

The SCAIIN founder expressed optimism about deepening collaboration with the NDDC Directorate of Education, Health and Social Services and other relevant stakeholders to develop sustainable programmes capable of improving health outcomes, promoting dignity, expanding opportunities, and enhancing the long-term well-being of people living with sickle cell disorder.

Beyond Nigeria, she also paid tribute to advocates, researchers, healthcare professionals, caregivers, and patient leaders working across Africa under the umbrella of the Umoja Africa Sickle Cell Consortium.

She noted that their efforts were helping to address inequalities in healthcare delivery, strengthen advocacy, advance scientific research, and influence policies aimed at improving the quality of life of persons living with sickle cell disorder across the continent.

Onolememen further acknowledged recent developments in Ireland, where stakeholders have been working towards the implementation of a comprehensive Model of Care for Sickle Cell Disease.

She commended Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) for engaging patients, families, advocates, and clinicians in the healthcare planning process, describing the initiative as a significant step towards delivering specialised and person-centred care.

According to her, the collaborative approach adopted in Ireland offers valuable lessons for healthcare systems across Africa, including Nigeria, where stronger partnerships between governments, healthcare institutions, patient groups, and civil society organisations could significantly improve outcomes for those affected by the disorder.

She stressed that World Sickle Cell Day should serve not only as an awareness campaign but also as a call to action for governments, institutions, and communities to invest more resources in healthcare, research, advocacy, and support systems for people living with sickle cell disorder.

“Every life matters, every voice matters, and every effort counts. Together, we are breaking barriers, challenging stigma, improving care, and creating opportunities for future generations. We must continue to work towards a future where no one living with sickle cell disorder is left behind,” Onolememen said