The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Friday, June 7 commissioned two-storey Paediatric Sickle Cell Centre in Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja.
Mr. Sanwo-Olu during the commissioning noted that the medical facility was donated by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), under the leadership of Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire.
“Prior to its redevelopment, the Centre was housed in a cramped bungalow that struggled to provide sufficient space for patient admissions and lacked the necessary facilities to cater to the needs of adolescent sickle cell patients.
“Nigeria bears a heavy burden of sickle cell disease, accounting for approximately 30% of global cases. In Lagos, this disease is the leading cause of infant mortality, with a rising number of cases being reported,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that LASUTH handles the largest number of sickle cell cases among healthcare facilities in Lagos.
He explained that the newly equipped Centre will enhance access to care for infant patients by providing more space for admissions, modern medical equipment for procedures, and testing capabilities to manage chronic conditions effectively.
The governor also stated that the Centre will offer comprehensive care including early diagnosis, advanced treatment, and continuous management for children living with sickle cell disease.
“Additionally, it will serve as a center for research and education, promoting a deeper understanding of the disease and ultimately contributing to the reduction of infant mortality rates,” he added.
