A bill seeking to establish National Sickle Cell Research and Treatment Centres across Nigeria has successfully passed its second reading at the Senate.
The proposed legislation aims to create specialized institutions for research, prevention, and management of sickle cell disease nationwide.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central), was debated extensively during Wednesday’s plenary session. He explained that the establishment of the centres would help in reducing the prevalence of sickle cell anaemia, which remains one of the most common genetic disorders in the country. “The centres will be responsible for carrying out advanced studies, public awareness, genetic counselling, and treatment of affected persons,” Yar’Adua stated.
Several senators who contributed to the debate commended the sponsor for bringing forward what they described as a life-saving initiative. Senator Betty Apiafi (PDP, Rivers West) stressed the need for a more coordinated national response, noting that many families continue to suffer the impact of the disorder due to lack of adequate medical facilities. “This bill will change the health narrative for millions of Nigerians living with sickle cell disease,” she added.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also backed the bill, describing it as a step toward improving Nigeria’s public health infrastructure. He emphasized that the proposed centres would work with universities and teaching hospitals to advance medical research and enhance patient care outcomes.
Presiding over the session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended lawmakers for their support and referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Health for further legislative action. The committee is expected to report back within four weeks.
If passed into law, the bill will mandate the Federal Government to establish at least one National Sickle Cell Research Centre in each of the six geopolitical zones, ensuring accessible healthcare for individuals battling the condition.