Ado-Ekiti: A Non-Governmental Organisation, Olanipekun Ayomide (O.A.) The initiative has commended the Ekiti Government for registering more than 1,000 sickle cell patients in its Health Insurance scheme.
The initiative’s Executive Director, Dr Ayomide Olanipekun, made the commendation during a public awareness event on Friday at the College of Nursing Science, Ado-Ekiti.
The event commemorated the 2025 World Sickle Cell and Blood Donor Day, observed globally on June 19, to raise awareness of sickle cell disorder and highlight the challenges faced by its warriors.
According to Olanipekun, since collaborating with the state government in 2023, no fewer than 1,000 sickle cell warriors have been registered in the state scheme to ensure they benefit from the free health services provided by the government.
“Ekiti Government, through its health insurance scheme, has registered over 1,000 sickle cells to reduce the financial burden on them and improve their total wellbeing and health status,” she said.
She noted that Gov. Biodun Oyebanji’s administration had provided unprecedented support since 2023, as reflected in the testimonies of sickle cell warriors across the state.
She added that his strides in the health sector were evident, particularly in patients’ experiences at primary, secondary, and tertiary health facilities.
“The introduction of the Ekiti Sickle Cell Policy framework will help address sickle cell disease and improve the quality of life for individuals living with it, as it promotes a better understanding of the condition,” she said.
Olanipekun expressed optimism that by 2026, all individuals living with sickle cell in Ekiti would be enrolled in the free health scheme and benefit fully from the healthcare services provided by the state government.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, commended the programme’s organisers for their foresight and initiative in bringing succour to those facing the challenges of sickle cell in the state.
Oyebode reiterated Gov. Oyebanji’s administration’s commitment to realising his shared prosperity mantra.
He assured that the government would continue implementing policies to uplift the lives of all Ekiti residents and foster a sense of belonging.
Similarly, in his keynote address, Oladele Olatunya, a Professor of Pediatrics and Child Health, commended the governor for his positive policy direction in caring for people with sickle cell disease.
Olatunya noted that the state government’s policy had helped reduce the financial burdens faced by affected families and given them a new lease on life.
Gov. Oyebanji was recognised at the event for his dedication and commitment to addressing sickle cell disorder in Ekiti through his people-oriented policies. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
