Nigeria Commits to Enhancing Sickle Cell Care Access

The Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, reaffirmed its commitment to equitable access to quality sickle cell care during a keynote address at the 2026 World Sickle Cell Day event in Abuja. The government recognizes sickle cell disease (SCD) as a major public health challenge, with Nigeria having the highest burden globally, where 25% of adults carry the sickle cell gene and approximately 100,000 infants die annually due to complications associated with the disease.

Despite advancements in medical science, Nigerians continue to face significant barriers to diagnosis and treatment. The government has initiated several interventions, including universal newborn screening policies and the establishment of six centers of excellence equipped with high-performance liquid chromatography machines to enhance diagnosis.

Additionally, the government aims to integrate sickle cell services into primary healthcare platforms and improve access to essential treatments, including hydroxyurea therapy, as part of its efforts to advance universal health coverage.