The vice chancellor, Chrisland University, Prof Chinedum Babalola has lamented the prevalence of sickle cell cases in Nigeria, stating that Nigeria has the highest number of people with sickle cell disease.
Babalola stated this in her keynote address when the children of the late accomplished businessman and son of Eruwa land, Chief Adeseun Ogundoyin donated ₦5 million to the Sickle Cell Hope Alive Foundation (SCHAF) to intensify the fight against sickle cell disease in Oyo State and Nigeria at large in honour of their late father who was a carrier of sickle cell disease but died on June 18, 1991 at the age of 51.
She said early detection, effective treatment and possible cure have become the focus for sickle cell disease across global platforms.
Citing the laudable achievements of late Chief Adeseun Ogundoyin despite his health status, Babalola who cautioned against stigmatisation of the patients, challenged all people with sickle cell disease to continue to aspire for greatness and conquer the world.
The Ogundoyin family-led by the speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin made the donation on the occasion of the World Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2024 organised by SCHAF in partnership with the Ogundoyin family.
The family also presented medical packs that would last in the treatment of each sickle cell patient, who are also called warriors, for three months to over 500 patients across age brackets at the event held at Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall, Ibadan.
The deputy governor of Oyo State, Barr Bayo Lawal, described the late Ogundoyin as a dogged fighter, saying no condition should define a human being.
He acknowledged the numerous accomplishments of the late Chief Ogundoyin and his political influence across the nation.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the son of the late Adeseun Ogundoyin and speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, appreciated the foundation for their many years of dedication to giving hope to people living with sickle cell disease.
