Posted by Chinenye on Fri 19th Jun, 2026 - tori.ng
A leading sickle cell advocate has renewed calls for stronger investment in healthcare systems, research and community support for people living with sickle cell disorder.
(Esther Onolememen, Founder SCAIIN…Photo Credit: Punch News)
The Founder of Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland–Nigeria, Esther Onolememen, has called for increased investment in healthcare, research, advocacy and support systems for people living with sickle cell disorder.
Speaking in a goodwill message released on Friday to mark World Sickle Cell Day, Onolememen praised the resilience of individuals living with the condition and their caregivers, referring to them as "warriors" whose courage and determination continue to inspire communities worldwide.
According to her, despite the physical, emotional and social difficulties associated with sickle cell disorder, affected individuals and their families have demonstrated remarkable strength and hope.
She noted that living with the condition is far more than a medical journey, representing a daily testament to resilience, perseverance and strength, with those affected continuing to inspire others through their courage and belief in a brighter future.
Onolememen also acknowledged the Niger Delta Development Commission for its efforts to improve the lives of people living with sickle cell disorder across the Niger Delta region.
She pointed out that collaborative work involving healthcare professionals, advocacy organisations, communities, development partners and government bodies has begun to deliver tangible results in awareness creation, improved access to healthcare services and support for families.
The SCAIIN founder specifically commended the Board and Management of the NDDC, headed by Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for backing initiatives aimed at bringing sickle cell awareness and healthcare interventions directly to communities.
She noted that through NDDC's support, significant progress has been made in taking awareness, education and healthcare interventions to communities across the Niger Delta, bringing hope to many families who had previously felt overlooked and inadequately served.
She expressed confidence in strengthening cooperation with the NDDC Directorate of Education, Health and Social Services and other partners to establish sustainable programmes that would enhance health outcomes and improve the wellbeing of those living with the disorder.
Beyond Nigeria, Onolememen recognised the work of advocates, researchers, healthcare professionals, caregivers and patient leaders within the Umoja Africa Sickle Cell Consortium, noting that their efforts continue to drive research, advocacy and policy reforms across the continent.
She also welcomed recent developments in Ireland, where stakeholders are working to establish a comprehensive Model of Care for Sickle Cell Disease.
She praised Ireland's Health Service Executive for involving patients, families, advocates and clinicians in healthcare planning, noting that the collaborative method being employed in Ireland offers important insights for African nations, including Nigeria, in enhancing healthcare delivery and outcomes for those living with sickle cell disorder.
Onolememen stressed that World Sickle Cell Day should function not merely as an awareness campaign but as a call to action for governments, institutions and communities to allocate greater resources to tackling the difficulties faced by those with the condition.
She underscored that every life, every voice and every effort matters, urging continued work towards a future where no one living with sickle cell disorder is left behind, through breaking down barriers, combating stigma, improving care and creating opportunities for future generations.