Ex-First Lady Obiano Enrolls 100 Sickle Cell Patients Into Anambra Health Scheme
By Sunny A. David, Awka
THE former First Lady of Anambra State, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Obiano, has enrolled more than 100 persons living with sickle cell disorder (PLWSCD) into the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIA), in a move aimed at easing their financial burden and improving access to healthcare.
The announcement was made by Mrs. Aisha Edwards Maduagwu, National Coordinator of the Association of Persons Living with Sickle Cell Disorder and Director of the Sickle Cell Orphanage and Underprivileged Home, Agulu, during a mass registration exercise in Awka.
Maduagwu described the initiative as a “historic milestone” in the fight for inclusive healthcare, noting that five members of the association died last month due to complications from the condition.
She commended Mrs. Obiano for her generosity, saying the sponsorship would allow beneficiaries to receive comprehensive medical care without worrying about costs.
She further highlighted Anambra’s pioneering role in passing the 2019 Sickle Cell Control and Eradication Law, which remains the only legislation of its kind in Nigeria.
Maduagwu urged the State government to reactivate the sickle cell monitoring committee and increase funding to reduce mortality rates.
“We call on government to strengthen mechanisms for managing sickle cell and to allocate more resources toward its eradication,” she said. She also appealed to caregivers to treat patients with dignity and compassion, cautioning against exploitation and stigma.
The Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, explained that while enrollment normally costs ₦12,500 per person, Mrs. Obiano’s payment of ₦1.25 million covered the registration of 100 beneficiaries under the agency’s “adoption model,” where philanthropists sponsor groups that cannot afford coverage.
Onyemaechi, represented by Dr. Ifedora Ngozika, called on other well-meaning individuals and politicians to emulate Obiano’s gesture to extend the support to more patients.
Maduagwu also thanked the Soludo-led administration and the Ministry of Health for their contributions to the sickle cell community, while urging for sustained engagement beyond political seasons.
