“The Adekunle Gold free healthcare for sickle cell warriors programme, ‘5 Star Care,’ now covers 1,000 Nigerians, easing treatment costs and ensuring full medical support.”

Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has unveiled a free health insurance scheme for 1,000 people living with sickle cell disease. Branded “5 Star Care,” the programme rolls out through his Adekunle Gold Foundation. It covers routine checkups, emergency treatment, and long‑term support. Moreover, it aims to ease the financial strain of relentless medical bills.

Gold announced 5 Star Care on Instagram for World Sickle Cell Day. He explained that his own journey with the condition inspired the initiative. “Everyone deserves five‑star care, no matter their income or background,” he wrote. The Lagos State Ministry of Health (LASHMA) and Sickle Cell Management Initiatives (SAMI) back the scheme. Together, they hope to deliver quality treatment without stress.

 

NOA Urges Genotype Testing Before Marriage

 As the World Sickle Cell Day is being marked around the globe, the National Orientation Agency of Nigeria (NOA), urged Nigerians to know their genotype before marriage. In an X post, NOA stressed that sickle cell disorder is entirely preventable through awareness and informed choices.

“Get tested. Know your genotype before marriage. Love with wisdom,” the agency wrote.

They warned against high‑risk unions—like AS/AS or SS/SS—and urged open discussions in homes, schools, and faith centres. Furthermore, they pointed out that early care and compassion can greatly reduce suffering. “One test can save generations,” NOA concluded.

Kwara Health Officials Call for Hope and Action

Meanwhile, in Ilorin, Kwara State’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina El‑Imam, spoke at a seminar by the Building Hope for Sickle Cell Foundation. She noted that Nigeria bears the world’s highest sickle cell burden, with 50 million carriers. Sadly, 2–3% of newborns have the disease, and up to 90% of affected children in sub‑Saharan Africa may die before age five.

Dr. El‑Imam—whose remarks were delivered by Dr. Ajao Kasali—urged a multi‑faceted approach to care. “By working together, we can rebirth hope and improve lives,” she said. She added that Kwara’s health insurance scheme now offers free services and vaccines for sickle cell patients, plus nutritional support to reduce crises.

Finally, speakers like Ajila Oladimeji‑Kamar (CEO, Building Hope for Sickle Cell Foundation) and Alhaji Kadir Obasola‑Jimoh (board chairman) shared personal stories. Obasola‑Jimoh, a 60‑year‑old carrier who retired from the Central Bank, encouraged others: “Sickle cell is not a death sentence.”

Additionally, the Dele Shittu Foundation will screen 1,000 people for free this Saturday. Together, these efforts signal fresh commitment to fight sickle cell disease across Nigeria.

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For more on the global impact of sickle cell disease, see the WHO’s overview of sickle cell anaemia.