…Celebrates 25 years of kidney transplantation in Nigeria
In a stirring celebration of courage, compassion and commitment, the Clarion Call Care Foundation marked its annual Living Donor Day in Lagos, honoring the selfless heroes who have given the ultimate gift—life through kidney donation.
This year’s event also commemorated a major milestone: 25 years of kidney transplantation in Nigeria—a journey of medical advancement, advocacy and hope.
Held on Thursday, April 10th, the event brought together kidney donors, transplant recipients, medical professionals, policymakers, and advocates—united by a shared mission to celebrate the human spirit that makes life-saving transplantation possible.
“You’ve given a part of yourself, yet you remain whole. Your sacrifice lives on in another — and that is the highest form of humanity.”
With candles lit in solemn tribute, attendees honored the light of each donor—those whose love and bravery now beat in someone else’s heart.
Evelyn Abrakson, who donated a kidney to her mother, shared her deeply personal journey.
“Giving an extra kidney to my mother was a decision made purely out of love,” she said. “I’ve never once fallen ill because of it. Love guided my choice, and it’s a choice I would make again.”
Mrs. Matthew Indiana, who gave her kidney to her husband of 15 years, echoed the sentiment of hope and gratitude.
“It was a privilege to be the one who could help save my husband’s life. That opportunity changed both of our lives forever.”
The event served as a platform for urgent calls to action in support of kidney health and donor protections.
Dr. Ebun Bamgboye, one of Nigeria’s most experienced nephrologists, spoke passionately about the economic and medical realities:
“The kidneys are your natural filters. Without them, toxins build up, organs fail, and lives are lost. Dialysis is not sustainable at #300,000 weekly—it’s financially crippling. Transplantation is not only medically superior but more affordable in the long run.”
Representing government efforts, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stressed the importance of donor protection:
“These individuals are heroes. We must ensure they are recognized, protected, and provided with comprehensive healthcare and insurance. Their bravery should never be met with neglect.”
Honoring a Pioneer: Dr. Ebun Bamgboye
A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of a prestigious Award of Honor to Dr. Ebun Bamgboye, Clinical Director and Consultant Nephrologist at St. Nicholas Hospital.
Dr. Bamgboye was recognized for his pioneering role in Nigeria’s kidney transplant journey—performing the country’s first-ever kidney transplant 25 years ago. Since then, he has led over 400 successful transplants, setting a gold standard for renal care and transforming countless lives through his vision and dedication.
In his remarks, Dr. Obi Davies-Ekwenna, Founder of the Clarion Call Care Foundation, urged a stronger national commitment to organ donation:
“We must normalize organ donation, remove the stigma, and create structured support systems that give hope to the thousands in need.”
Dr. Iyore James, President and Vice Chair of the Foundation’s Board, called for urgent reforms, including the creation of a national donor registry, robust public education campaigns, and integration of transplant care into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
As awardees walked across the stage to receive their honors, their stories illuminated the room—each one a testament to how generosity, met with the right medical infrastructure, can save lives.
Organ donation is not just a medical act—it is a moral one. It is the legacy of the living—a ripple of love that extends far beyond the operating room.
With continued advocacy, innovation, and compassion, the Clarion Call Care Foundation is helping to shape a future where no one dies for lack of a kidney—and where giving life becomes a national value.