A non-governmental organisation, Olanipekun Ayomide (O.A.) Initiative, has commended the Ekiti State Government for registering more than 1,000 sickle cell patients in its health insurance scheme.

The Executive Director of the initiative, Dr Ayomide Olanipekun, made the commendation during a public awareness event on Friday at the College of Nursing Science, Ado-Ekiti.

The event was in commemoration of the 2025 World Sickle Cell and Blood Donor Day, observed globally on June 19 to raise awareness on sickle cell disorder  and highlight the challenges faced by its warriors.

According to Ms Olanipekun, since collaborating with the state government in 2023, about 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.

She said, “Ekiti Government, through its health insurance scheme, has registered over 1,000 sickle cells with the aim of reducing the financial burden on them and improving their total wellbeing as well as health status.’’

She noted that Governor 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.

She stated, “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.’’

Ms Olanipekun expressed optimism that by 2026, individuals living with sickle cell in Ekiti State 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, Yinka Oyebode, commended the organisers of the programme for their foresight and initiative in bringing succour to those facing the challenges of sickle cell in the state.

Mr Oyebode reiterated the commitment of Mr Oyebanji’s administration to the realisation of his mantra of shared prosperity.

He assured that the government would continue to implement policies aimed at uplifting the lives of all Ekiti residents and fostering a sense of belonging.

Similarly, in his keynote address, a Professor of Pediatrics and Child Health, Oladele Olatunya, commended the governor for his positive policy direction in the care of people living with sickle cell.

Mr Olatunya noted that the state government’s policy had helped reduce the financial burdens faced by affected families and provided them with a new lease of life.

Mr Oyebanji was presented with an award of recognition at the event, for his dedication and commitment to addressing sickle cell disorder in Ekiti State through his people-oriented policies.

(NAN)