Matilda Omonaiye/
The ancient city of Abeokuta will on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, host the maiden edition of the Olufunke Akiyode Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative for Africa, a memorial project set up in honour of the late Olufunke Akiyode, who lived with sickle cell anemia until her passing on September 20, 2024.
The convener of the event, Dr. Abiola Afolabi-Akiyode, elder sister of the deceased, disclosed in a statement that the programme is designed to become an annual event aimed at raising awareness about sickle cell disease, promoting education, and improving healthcare services for patients across Africa.
The choice of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) as the venue, according to Akiyode-Afolabi, was deliberate, as the late Olufunke was a proud alumna of the institution.
The highlight of the event includes a 2-kilometre awareness walk, a symposium, and free genotype testing for participants. Former Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ogun State Chapter, Dr. Kunle Ashimi, will deliver the keynote lecture.
Over 500 participants comprising students, families, healthcare professionals, and community members are expected to take part in the walk and symposium.
“This initiative is not just a memorial for my sister who battled sickle cell anemia all her life, it is also a call to action,” Akiyode-Afolabi said. “Nigeria has more than 10 million people living with sickle cell disease, and many suffer in silence. By coming together, we can change the narrative through education, genetic counselling, and better healthcare support.”
The symposium will emphasise the importance of genotype testing and genetic counselling as vital steps toward reducing the prevalence of sickle cell disease in Nigeria. Discussions will also highlight strategies for prevention, early detection, and improved patient care.
The convener noted that the event, organised in collaboration with FUNAAB and the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta (FCE), will also feature speeches, cultural performances, and community engagement activities.
“Your support will greatly contribute to the success of this initiative,” she stressed. “Together, we can raise awareness and improve the lives of those affected by sickle cell disease.”
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