By Gloria Drealomalicha
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to embrace voluntary blood donation as a simple but powerful way to save lives and support the nation’s healthcare system.
The appeal was made by the Jigawa State Director of the agency, Mr Ahmad Tijjani, in a message issued on Sunday to commemorate the 2026 World Blood Donor Day.
Observed annually on June 14, World Blood Donor Day recognises and celebrates the selfless contributions of voluntary blood donors whose donations help save millions of lives worldwide. This year’s theme is “Twenty Years of Celebrating Giving: Thank You Blood Donors.”
Tijjani emphasised that every unit of blood donated can make a critical difference for patients facing life-threatening situations, including accident victims, surgical patients, women experiencing childbirth complications, and individuals living with conditions such as sickle cell disease and cancer.
“Blood donation is a life-saving act of solidarity,” he said. “Every unit of blood donated helps patients facing emergencies, surgeries, childbirth complications and chronic illnesses.”
He noted that voluntary blood donation remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen healthcare services and build resilient communities through collective responsibility and compassion.
According to him, safe and regular blood donations not only save lives but also inspire others, including family members and friends, to become donors themselves.
Tijjani encouraged prospective donors to maintain good nutrition and stay well hydrated before donating blood to ensure a safe and successful donation process.
He further urged Nigerians to seek reliable health information, promote healthy lifestyles, support blood banks, and contribute to strengthening community healthcare systems.
“Nigerians are reminded that voluntary blood donation is a gift of life that strengthens communities and saves millions worldwide,” he said.
The NOA director reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to raising awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation and encouraging more Nigerians to participate in this life-saving act.
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