World Sickle Cell Day: Oyo Govt Offers Free Medication

As part of activities to mark this year’s World Sickle Cell Day, the Oyo State government has provided free medication for over 300 persons, and reaffirmed its commitment to providing quality healthcare for citizens, especially individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

Speaking at a sensitisation event held at Ikolaba High School, Ibadan, the commissioner for health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, explained the importance of early detection, enhanced access to medical care and community awareness in reducing the burden of the disease.

She said the state’s healthcare reforms were deeply rooted in the principles of universal health coverage and equity, ensuring that conditions such as SCD remained a consistent priority.

World Sickle Cell Day is observed globally on June 19, serves as a vital platform for raising awareness and improving understanding of the challenges faced by individuals living with sickle cell disease.

The event, organised in collaboration with a non-governmental organization, brought together patients, families, and students across the city.

Ajetunmobi explained that the state government’s strategy for addressing Sickle Cell Disease includes strengthening newborn screening for early diagnosis, expanding access to vital medications such as hydroxyurea and folic acid, and integrating SCD clinics into all levels of healthcare from primary to tertiary facilities.