By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

More than 100 children living with sickle cell anaemia in Bayelsa State have received much-needed medical support through a collaborative initiative between the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland–Nigeria.

The programme, themed “Bridging the Gap in Sickle Cell Disease Management and Care,” was held on Friday at the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa. It featured medical consultations, laboratory investigations, counselling sessions, and the distribution of essential medications.

Aimed at amplifying the voices of people living with sickle cell disease and drawing greater government attention to their needs, the Sickle Cell Health Prevention and Sensitisation Programme brought hope to participating families.

Founder of the Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland–Nigeria, Mrs. Esther Pepple Onolomemen, expressed joy that sufferers were finally gaining visibility and support.

She thanked the NDDC for partnering to bring relief to affected children, stressing that they deserve access to the highest quality of care.

“We are happy that the government is going to listen to us,” Onolomemen said. “Our children deserve to get the best care. Our children deserve so much more.”

The NDDC Bayelsa State Director, Engr. Goodness Alamieyeseigha—represented by Mrs. Okio Eucheria Uju—said the programme reflects the Commission’s commitment to addressing health challenges across the Niger Delta.

He urged participants to spread the message beyond the event to help raise awareness about prevention and proper management of sickle cell anaemia.

“The key is to create awareness. After this programme, we’ll go out and educate others about how to prevent sickle cell anaemia and how those already affected can manage it, so that in time, this disease can be eradicated,” he said.

Parents Odu Abigail and Ayibafieyepire Peter shared emotional testimonies about their efforts to care for their children, underscoring the daily struggles faced by families battling the disease.

The event forms part of a broader Niger Delta-wide campaign to eradicate sickle cell anaemia and improve the quality of life for affected children.