1,000 Blood Donors Unite to Save Lives in Historic ‘Osun Donate’ Programme
...As UNIOSUN CMD Urges Government to Establish Donation Centres
In a groundbreaking initiative, 1,000 individuals united to donate blood in the "Osun Donate" programme, a collaborative effort spearheaded by UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, the National Blood Service Commission, the Red Cross Osun State Chapter, NGOs, and various organisations. This historic event marks a significant milestone in Osun State’s healthcare history, with a focus on addressing blood availability challenges, particularly during emergencies and mass casualty situations.
Dr Babatunde Afolabi, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, expressed his joy at the success of the event, highlighting its importance in ensuring the availability of blood for those in urgent need. Dr Afolabi urged Osun State Governor, His Excellency Governor Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke, to take proactive steps by establishing a central blood donation centre, which would serve as a dedicated blood bank to benefit both the hospital and the larger Osun community.
"Today’s event is a powerful demonstration of community collaboration and commitment to saving lives," said Dr Afolabi. "However, to guarantee a steady blood supply for the future, it is crucial that we work towards the creation of a central blood bank here in Osun State."
During his address, Dr Adeyemo, Programme Coordinator of the Global Affairs and Sustainable Development Institute and President of the Osun Medical Students Association, spoke about the numerous benefits of regular blood donation, including reducing iron overload, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and, most importantly, saving lives. He also called on the Osun State Government to support the initiative and make it a recurring programme that could help address blood shortages in the state.
Dr John Agbonifo, Founder and Director of the Global Affairs and Sustainable Development Institute, emphasised the power of regular blood donation, noting that just one pint of blood could save up to three lives. He urged the public to contribute to this life-saving cause and give hope to those in critical need.
This pioneering event not only sets a new standard for community-driven healthcare initiatives in Osun but also highlights the potential for collaborative efforts to address critical health needs. The blood collected during this event will be used to help patients in need, giving them a second chance at life and contributing to the overall improvement of healthcare in Osun State.
Posted by: UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital Public Relations Unit
Date: 10 May 2025
