In celebration of the 2025 World Blood Donor Day, the South West Centre of the National Blood Service Agency (NBSA) in collaboration with Rotary Clubs in Ibadan held a street sensitization rally to promote voluntary blood donation and highlight its life-saving importance.
The awareness campaign saw staff of the agency and members of Rotary International engaging road users and passers-by across major parts of Ibadan, emphasizing the urgent need for regular blood donations to help save lives.
Addressing journalists during the event, Dr. Oladapo Aworanti, Zonal Director of the NBSA, expressed gratitude to the general public for their continued support and willingness to donate blood for patients in need.
“Blood donation is one of the greatest acts of humanity because it helps save lives and sustains communities,” he said.
Dr. Aworanti noted significant progress in donor numbers since the last celebration, but emphasized that demand remains high across the agency and blood banks in the region.
The 2025 theme, “Give Blood, Give Hope – Together We Save Lives,” underscores the importance of shared responsibility in ensuring a sustainable blood supply.
Responding to questions from the press, Dr. Aworanti stressed that the agency operates on non-discriminatory terms.
“We don’t discriminate. Once you’re within the eligible age range and meet the required health parameters, you can donate,” he said. “Blood donation is entirely voluntary and non-remunerated. We no longer allow paid donors due to the potential health risks involved.”
Speaking on behalf of Rotary International, Rotarian Kemi Akinpelu, Zone 1 Coordinator, Special Committee on Blood Projects, emphasized that blood donation should not be limited to designated celebration days.
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“While we mark June 14 as World Blood Donor Day and December 8 as National Blood Donor Day in Nigeria, every day is an opportunity to save lives through voluntary blood donation,” she said.
Akinpelu outlined eligibility criteria for donors, including being between 18 and 65 years old, weighing at least 45 kg, and having a haemoglobin level of not less than 12.5 g/dl.
“Blood is vital in emergencies—from women facing complications during childbirth to accident victims and cancer patients. Yet, access remains limited in many low- and middle-income countries,” she added.
She also highlighted that Type O negative blood is in highest demand due to its universal compatibility and encouraged eligible individuals to become regular donors.
“Donating blood not only saves lives, but also has health benefits for the donor. It helps regulate iron levels, reduces the risk of heart disease and cancer, and even burns calories,” she explained.
Mr. Abel Abu, Chairman of the NBSA World Blood Donor Day Committee, urged more Nigerians to donate blood to help reduce avoidable deaths.
Mrs. Olujide Adebimpe, Convener of Save a Life Today Foundation, emphasized that donating blood is beneficial not only for recipients but also for donors themselves. She praised the NBSA’s efforts and pledged continued support in providing donor incentives.
Representing the Saving Women and Children Foundation, Dr. D. Allen raised concern over the inadequate supply of blood during childbirth, a major contributor to maternal mortality.
“There is a need for increased public awareness and participation in voluntary blood donation to address maternal health challenges,” He urged.
One of the event’s major sponsors, Ferrobin Plus, represented by Mobolaji Adegboye, contributed to the health of donors by providing blood tonics to aid their recovery after donation.
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