Agulu, Anambra State — As Nigeria joined the rest of the world to mark the 2025 United Nations World Sickle Cell Day, passionate calls for urgent policy implementation and heightened public awareness echoed through Agulu, Anambra State.
Leading the charge was Aisha Edwards Maduagwu, National Coordinator of the Association of People Living with Sickle Cell Disorder (APLSCD) and Director of the Sickle Cell Orphanage and Underprivileged Home.
In an emotional address, she emphasized the need for intensified genotype education, strict enforcement of sickle cell-related legislation, and expanded care for vulnerable children battling the condition.
Reflecting on key milestones, including the passage of the Anambra State Sickle Cell Law and the establishment of Nigeria’s first Sickle Cell Orphanage, Maduagwu highlighted the progress made in offering shelter, healthcare, education, and nutrition to children living with the disorder over the past five years.
“We are proud of what we’ve accomplished, but we must go further,” Maduagwu urged. “Every prospective couple must prioritize genotype testing. Prevention is not just better—it is essential.”
She called on both government authorities and religious bodies to enforce mandatory genotype screening before marriage as a vital step toward reducing sickle cell births in Nigeria. Additionally, she demanded full implementation of the 2019 Anambra Sickle Cell Control Law, warning of the dangers posed by fraudulent individuals promoting fake cures for the disease.
Maduagwu expressed deep appreciation to prominent supporters of the cause, including Governor Charles Soludo, Dr. Nonye Soludo, former Governor Peter Obi, Prof. Stella Okunna, and Sir Paul Chukwuma, who recently donated a fully equipped ambulance to the orphanage.
She also acknowledged the contributions of organizations such as Juhel Pharmaceuticals, Lovebite Bakeries, ASA Worldwide, NDLEA, and members of the Agulu community, praising their consistent support.
However, Maduagwu did not shy away from expressing disappointment with local political leadership, particularly criticizing the Member representing Anaocha 1 Constituency for what she described as neglect of legislative responsibilities toward women and children’s welfare.
“We need leadership that truly prioritizes the needs of our vulnerable children,” she stated, renewing her call for a permanent facility to replace the orphanage’s current rented space, which she described as unsustainable.
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The commemoration drew a diverse audience including civil society groups, healthcare workers, government officials, and members of the public. It served not only as a day of reflection and awareness but also as a rallying cry for unity, compassion, and legislative action in the ongoing fight against sickle cell disorder in Nigeria.
“Let this not be just another annual observance,” Maduagwu concluded. “Let it be a catalyst for real change—a future where no child suffers or dies from a condition that can be prevented.”
