Doctors laud NDDC new sickle cell initiative

Kindly share this story:

Medical and health workers in Akwa Ibom State have commended the Niger Delta Development Commission, and the Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland–Nigeria for launching a new lifeline for sickle cell patients, describing the intervention as a “renewed hope” for those living with the disorder.

The initiative, spanning the nine states of the Niger Delta region, provides essential medical support for patients while integrating their needs into government health strategies.

Speaking at a sickle cell health awareness and sensitisation programme in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, participants praised the initiative as a timely demonstration of compassion and responsibility toward a vulnerable population.

Consultant Family Physician and Medical Director at Ikot Ekpene General Hospital, Nene Amdem, said, “This is a laudable initiative. Families caring for sickle cell warriors face immense challenges, not just financial, but emotional and spiritual.

“This campaign will boost morale and show that society has not abandoned them. I urge other agencies to follow this example.”

Ediomoabasi Inyang added that the initiative should be sustained and expanded, emphasising the importance of genotype education in reducing disease prevalence.

“The programme provides relief to patients and families, especially through access to essential drugs. It also supports mental health, as sickle cell disease takes a toll on both the body and the emotional well-being of sufferers and caregivers,” he said.

President of the Sickle Cell Warriors’ Care and Healthy Living Foundation, Rhoda Asuquo, described the NDDC as a “responsible organisation” for championing a condition often misunderstood. “People think sickle cell cases are over-reported.

“They are not. Interventions like this can prevent the disease through awareness. Sickle cell is chronic and requires continuous care. We hope this is not a one-off effort,” she noted.

Representing the Commission, NDDC State Director Evong Murdock said the programme aligns with the agency’s mandate and the Federal Government’s development vision.

“Our goal is to help you live a normal life. You may be a sickle cell carrier, but you are part of society. You deserve support, dignity, and healthy living,” he said.

Founder of SCAIIN, Esther Onolememen, commended the partnership for reaching families in need and bridging gaps in awareness, care, and community support. “Many families continue to battle stigma, misinformation, and limited access to quality care.

This partnership is a major step toward saving lives, expanding education, and supporting families who have carried this burden alone for too long,” she said.

Caregivers and sickle cell warriors attending the event described the outreach as “deeply impactful,” praising the NDDC and its partners for delivering hope, essential medication, and renewed encouragement to families affected by the condition.

Kindly share this story:

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]

UPDATE NEWS: Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25Million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, 👉 click here to find out how it work (Be sure to ask for evidence of clients that have benefitted from this)

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.