…we appeal for efforts to make all essential drugs readily available
The Director, Sickle Cell Orphanage and Underprivileged Home Agulu, Aisha Edwards Maduagwu has commended the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State Chapter for
In her welcome address during the visit by NMA led by the Chairman, Dr. Princeton Okam, on Thursday 23rd October 2025, Maduagwu hailed the medical practioners
alleviating the burdens faced by those affected by sickle cell disease and the underprivileged in our community.
“As we gather, I must highlight a pressing concern that continues to hinder our progress: the non-compliance with the Anambra State Sickle Cell Law. This legislation, which intended to safeguard the rights and access to care for individuals living with sickle cell disease, has unfortunately not been fully implemented across various sectors.
” The adverse effects are manifold, including limited public awareness, inadequate funding for screening and treatment programs, and a persistent stigma that isolates affected families.
“This non-compliance undermines the fight against sickle cell disease, leading to higher morbidity rates, increased healthcare costs, and preventable deaths.
” It is imperative that we advocate collectively for stricter enforcement to ensure that the law’s provision such as mandatory premarital screening and support for affected persons, translate into tangible benefits for our society.
Maduagwu who is also the National Coordinator of APLSCD, appealed for efforts to make all essential drugs readily available for the treatment.
“In light of these challenges, I urge the NMA to implore its members to extend greater assistance to sickle cell patients registered under the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme in their respective hospitals. Specifically, we appeal for efforts to make all essential drugs readily available for the treatment of sickle cell persons.
“We have received numerous complaints regarding the nonavailability of needed medications, stemming from a lack of synergy between the Insurance Agency and the hospitals. This unfortunate gap forces patients to purchase these drugs at exorbitant prices, despite them being covered under the insurance.
“By fostering better collaboration, we can ensure that these vulnerable individuals receive the comprehensive care they deserve without additional financial strain.
“Furthermore, I encourage you to continue your compassionate practice of assisting sickle cell patients who visit your hospitals by offering some waivers on the costs incurred for their treatments. Such gestures not only provide immediate relief but also reinforce the trust in our healthcare system, making it more accessible to those who need it most.
“On behalf of our organization, I extend our heartfelt thanks for all the support you have rendered thus far, especially from the Resident Doctors Association NAUTH and the Christian Medical and Dental Association. Your previous contributions, donations, and advocacy have been instrumental in sustaining our operations and improving the lives of the children and families we serve. We are truly grateful for your unwavering partnership.
“I must specifically commend your Chapter Chairman, Dr. Princeton Okam, for his focus-driven leadership. Under his guidance, the NMA Anambra State Chapter has achieved immense progress, fostering innovations and collaborations that have translated into enhanced quality healthcare for all residents of Anambra.
” His vision and dedication inspire us all and set a benchmark for excellence in medical leadership. Also, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, for utilizing his position to make things easier as regards to our welfare. Dr Afam has many atimes openly identified with our cause.
“Finally, as doctors, you remain our last beacon of hope in the quest for wellness. In this regard, we implore you to persist in your vigilant fight against quackery within the profession and the exploitative practices of certain healing miracle churches.
“These entities prey on the desperation of sickle cell persons, falsely promising to alter their SS genotype to AA through payments for miracle seeds, ritual offerings, and other deceptive means. Your advocacy and regulatory efforts are crucial in protecting our community from such harms and ensuring that evidence-based medicine prevails.
“Please, it would be a blessing and great joy to us if NMA can donate such items as used clothing, beverages, foodstuffs and electric fan, to support our activities because our home has become a shelter and source of upliftment to many vulnerable sickle cell children.
“We are hopeful that one day through the kindness of individuals and groups alike, we would be able to move to our own permanent site. Our present abode is saturated and choking for want of space as we are officially 28 in number.
In his speech, NMA Chairman, Anambra Chapter, Dr. Princeton Okam while presenting their donations, encouraged the Sickle Cell Patients, urging them to remain strong.
Dr. Okam said the visit is part of NMA’s way of demonstrating coperate social responsibility, assured that the Association will continue to assist and respond to some of the demands made.
” You can still achieve your potentials. Keep the faith alive and may God continue to strengthen you all’. He prayed.
