As the world marks Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2025, I, Rep. Bassey Akiba, Member representing Calabar Municipal and Odukpani Federal Constituency, stand in solidarity with the thousands of individuals and families battling the realities of sickle cell disorder in Cross River State and Nigeria at large.
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is not just a medical condition it is a daily struggle, a test of resilience, and a call for collective responsibility. I salute the strength and courage of all warriors and survivors, especially our young people, who continue to defy the odds with dignity and grace.
To every family caring for someone with sickle cell, and to every individual fighting this inherited condition:
You are not alone. Your voice matters. Your journey inspires.
You are the true definition of strength.
As a public servant driven by compassion and purpose, I remain committed to improving the health outcomes of all constituents. Through legislative action, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, we have made significant strides in the health sector.
Rep Bassey Akiba while celebrating sickle cell day 2025 has listed below his Contributions to Health and Humanity:
Free Medical Outreaches Across Calabar Municipal and Odukpani:
We have organized several free health outreaches that provided medical checkups, treatments, and drugs to rural communities, bringing healthcare closer to the people.
Support for Vulnerable Patients:
Through our constituency office, we’ve provided financial and material assistance to individuals in need of urgent medical care, including surgeries, maternal health support, and emergency evacuations.
Sponsorship of Health Insurance Enrollments:
We initiated and sponsored the registration of indigent constituents under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, ensuring they have access to affordable and quality healthcare.
Advocacy for Blood Donation & Genotype Testing:
To tackle sickle cell at its roots, we’ve led campaigns in secondary schools and public spaces advocating for genotype awareness, premarital testing, and blood donation drives.
Construction and Equipping of Primary Health Centres:
We facilitated the renovation and equipping of primary health centres in underserved parts of Odukpani and Calabar Municipality ensuring safe delivery for mothers and accessible treatment for children.
Bassey Akiba Final Word of Encouragement:
Let us continue to raise awareness, end the stigma, and support sickle cell warriors with love and resources. We must move from sympathy to support, from awareness to action. I call on all stakeholders families, faith-based groups, schools, and health institutions to join hands in this fight.
Together, we can build a future where sickle cell is no longer a silent burden, but a challenge met with science, compassion, and solidarity.
May God bless all sickle cell survivors.
May God bless Cross River State.
May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Hon. Bassey Akiba
Member, House of Representatives
Calabar Municipal/Odukpani Federal Constituency
