The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has stressed that a healthy population is important for the overall development of the Niger Delta region.
Speaking at a Sickle Cell Health Promotion and Sensitisation programme held at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital in Port Harcourt, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said sickle cell disease remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, especially in the Niger Delta. He added that the Commission is committed to creating awareness and supporting prevention and treatment.
Dr. Ogbuku, who was represented by the Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Dr. Patience Ezugu, said the NDDC is focused on preventive healthcare, early diagnosis, and community education. He urged young people to know their genotype before marriage, encouraged patients to remain hopeful, and praised health workers for their dedication.
According to him, the goal of the Commission is to ensure that young people understand genotype compatibility, families have access to screening, and patients receive proper care without discrimination or stigma.
Also speaking at the event, the Founder of the Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland–Nigeria (SCAIIN), Mrs. Esther Pepple Onolememen, praised the NDDC for supporting public health programmes and addressing the social impact of sickle cell disease. She called for joint efforts to end the pain, stigma, and silence associated with the disease.
Meanwhile, a parent of a child living with sickle cell disease, Mr. Derefaka Yemiesibo, expressed gratitude to the NDDC for its support and awareness campaigns, saying they have helped families stay strong and better understand the condition.
