The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has emphasised the importance of nurturing a healthy population for the holistic development of the Niger Delta region, stressing that the region needs a healthy people.

Speaking during the Sickle Cell Health Promotion and Sensitisation programme at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, observed that Sickle Cell Disease remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta.

Ogbuku, who was represented by the Director of Education, Health, and Social Services, Dr Patience Ezugu, noted that the sensitisation programme was dedicated to strengthening awareness to ensure prevention and care for Sickle Cell Disease in the Niger Delta.

The Managing Director stated: “As a Commission mandated to enhance the well-being of our people, the NDDC recognises that sustainable development is impossible without a healthy population.

“This programme reinforces our commitment to preventive healthcare, early diagnosis, and community education. For our youths, knowing your genotype early is essential. For patients, we reaffirm our support for improved access to care. For health professionals, we appreciate your dedication and encourage continued collaboration in research, counselling, and community outreach.”

Ogbuku said that the goal of the NDDC was to ensure that “every young person understands genotype compatibility, that every family has access to screening, and that every patient receives care without stigma. Prevention is achievable, and informed choices save lives.”

He said further: “As we deepen awareness on Sickle Cell Disease, I urge our youths to prioritise genotype testing, our patients to remain hopeful, and our health professionals to continue their invaluable service. The NDDC remains committed to strengthening healthcare systems, empowering communities, and building a healthier Niger Delta.”

Speaking earlier, the Founder of Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland-Nigeria, SCAIIN, Mrs Esther Pepple Onolememen, commended the NDDC for investing in public health and for recognising that sickle cell disease was not only a medical issue but also a social and developmental one.

She stated that SCAIIN, a non-governmental organisation, was focused on breaking the cycle of pain, stigma, and silence surrounding sickle cell disorder through research, education, and community mobilisation.

According to Onolememen, the sickle cell health promotion and sensitisation programme would strengthen health outcomes and build public trust, stating: “Together, we are rewriting the story of sickle cell in Nigeria from silence to knowledge, from stigma to support, and from neglect to action.”

Expressing gratitude, the father of one of the children living with the sickle cell disease, Mr Derefaka Yemiesibo, thanked the NDDC for helping families build resilience through advocacy and support for awareness programmes.

•PHOTO: NDDC Director of Education, Health, and Social Services, Dr Patience Ezugu (middle), handing over a health kit to Master Israel David (left), during the Sickle Cell Health Promotion and Sensitisation programme at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt. On the right is the Founder of Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland-Nigeria, SCAIIN, Mrs Esther Pepple Onolememen

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