By Stanley Nwako
The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, has called on residents of the state to embrace voluntary blood donation as a lifesaving act capable of reducing preventable deaths, especially among pregnant women and accident victims.
Dr. Obidike made the call during the commemoration of the 2026 World Blood Donor Day held at General Hospital, Enugwu-Ukwu. The annual event is observed globally on June 14 to raise awareness about the need for safe blood and to appreciate voluntary blood donors for their invaluable contributions to healthcare.
Speaking at the event, the commissioner emphasized the importance of regular blood donation, noting that adequate blood supply remains critical in saving lives during medical emergencies.
According to him, findings from recent maternal mortality reviews in the state revealed that lack of readily available blood is one of the factors contributing to maternal deaths, particularly in cases of excessive bleeding during childbirth.
“One of the major challenges identified during our maternal mortality review is the issue of blood availability. When there is severe blood loss and blood is not readily available, lives can be lost. This is why we are encouraging healthy individuals to donate blood regularly,” he said.
Dr. Obidike assured residents that the Anambra State Government has established and strengthened blood banks across state-owned hospitals to ensure that blood is available when needed.
He added that the Ministry of Health remains committed to improving access to safe blood and strengthening healthcare services across the state.
The commissioner urged members of the public to see blood donation as a humanitarian service that can give others a second chance at life, stressing that a single donation can save multiple lives.
The event featured awareness talks on blood donation and attracted healthcare workers around the state.
Stanley is of the Ministry of Health, Anambra State
