By Doris Obinna
Residents of Lagos defied rain and gathered in large numbers on Saturday, June 14, to mark the 2025 World Blood Donor Day with a spirited awareness walk, youth-centered activities, and a community-wide blood donation drive. Far beyond a symbolic gesture, the event became a powerful call to action aimed at changing public perceptions of blood donation in Nigeria.
The celebration, organized by the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Committee (LSBTC), with the theme “Give Blood, Give Hope: Together We Save Lives,” focused on demystifying the process of blood donation, honoring voluntary donors, and fostering early awareness among young people. Held at the LSBTC headquarters in Gbagada, the event featured a rain-soaked but vibrant fitness and awareness walk through the local community, where participants marched with placards, chanted slogans, and demonstrated a shared commitment to saving lives.
Health advocates, government officials, and civil society organizations including the Nigerian Red Cross and the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN) joined the effort, lending credibility and weight to the day’s activities.
Executive Secretary, LSBTC, Dr. Bodunrin Osikomaiya, opened the event with a message on the long-term vision for blood donation in Lagos. She emphasized not only the recognition of voluntary donors as unsung heroes but also the need to increase transparency and public education about the blood transfusion process. “When people see how blood is collected, tested, stored, and delivered, they begin to trust the system. The myths break down. The fear fades,” she said.
This year’s campaign notably included a strong youth focus, aiming to instill values of volunteerism from an early age. “We are involving children and youth not just as future donors but as advocates today. Volunteerism isn’t age-restricted it’s a mindset,” Osikomaiya added.
Longstanding partners echoed the message of collective responsibility. Kosofe Divisional Head of the Nigerian Red Cross, Mr. Benjamin Aghoro, praised the Lagos State Government’s consistent efforts in promoting voluntary blood donation. “The Lagos model is working. We are witnessing a positive change in how people view blood donation no longer as taboo but as an act of civic responsibility,” he said.
Consultant Haematologist, Alimosho General Hospital, Dr. Adebukola Orolu, spoke on the ongoing need for a steady blood supply. “In Lagos, voluntary blood donation is not a luxury, it is a necessity. From children with malaria induced anaemia to mothers facing postpartum hemorrhage, the need is constant,” she explained. She also highlighted the importance of post-donation care, urging donors to hydrate and rest after giving blood.
The private sector also stepped forward, with Fidson Healthcare Plc renewing its commitment to supporting blood donation through the LSBTC. Corporate Service Manager, Temitope Akindele, emphasized that the company’s involvement goes beyond corporate social responsibility. “This isn’t just about CSR it’s about closing the blood availability gap. Over 10,000 voluntary donors came through this platform last year. That shows it works.” Akindele encouraged other companies to follow suit, stressing that blood availability should be a standard feature in every hospital, not an emergency scramble.
Also, Jonathan Aghoro, a blood donor ambassador and youth member of the Nigerian Red Cross, shared his experience to dispel common myths. “Many Nigerians still believe blood donation is risky or spiritually unsafe. But it’s painless, and you leave knowing you’ve given life.” His message resonated with young attendees, many of whom participated in the Youth Extravaganza a lively segment of the event featuring games, music, and awards for outstanding donors.
Although World Blood Donor Day is recognized globally on June 14, the message in Lagos was clear: ‘this is just the beginning.’ Organizers and attendees alike called for sustained efforts to normalize blood donation as a routine act of civic duty and compassion.
“We are not just celebrating today we’re starting conversations, shifting perspectives, and saving lives. One drop at a time,” one of the volunteers added.