By Our Correspondent
In a heartfelt commemoration of the 2025 United Nations World Sickle Cell Day, the Anambra State Young Progressives Party (YPP) governorship candidate, Sir Paul Chukwuma, has reiterated a bold call for collective action to eradicate sickle cell anaemia in Nigeria.
The YPP team, led by deputy governorship candidate Uzu Okagbue, visited the Sickle Cell Orphanage and Underprivileged Home in Agulu, where they spent time with at least 16 children living with the condition.
Sir Paul, in a statement marking the day, emphasised that ignorance remains one of the biggest enablers of sickle cell in society.
He called on all stakeholders — including government, churches, communities, and individuals — to aggressively promote genotype awareness.
“To stop sickle cell, we must first stamp out ignorance,” Chukwuma declared, adding “It is unacceptable that, in this age, couples still go into marriage without knowing their genotype. This must end.”
He stressed that the key to prevention lies in education and mandatory genotype testing before marriage, describing it as a fundamental public health responsibility.
Chukwuma, however, added that sickle cell is not a death sentence, urging society to show more compassion and support to those living with the condition.
“Everyone faces one life challenge or another,” he said. “For those with sickle cell, their challenge is unique, but it doesn’t define their worth. We honour their courage.”
He paid tribute to both survivors and those who have succumbed to the illness, calling them “silent warriors” whose stories continue to inspire the push for a cure.
“Your strength lives on. Your pain is not forgotten. In your memory, we press on — for hope, for healing, and for a cure,” the YPP flag bearer stated.
The visit to the Agulu centre was described as emotional and symbolic, reinforcing the party’s commitment to inclusive healthcare and a more compassionate Anambra.
