24/07/2026
COURTESY VISIT TO THE ACTING SECRETARY TO THE YOBE STATE GOVERNMENT STRENGTHENS PARTNERSHIP FOR SICKLE CELL CARE AND EMPOWERMENT
The leadership of the A5 Sickle Cell Support Initiative paid a strategic courtesy visit to the Acting Secretary to the Yobe State Government (SSG), Dr. Mohammed Goje, as part of the organisation's ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with the Yobe State Government in improving the welfare of people living with Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD).
The high level engagement provided an opportunity for the Initiative to present its achievements, ongoing interventions, and long-term vision of establishing a dedicated A5 Sickle Cell Support Centre to provide comprehensive healthcare, counselling, advocacy, research, and social support services for individuals and families affected by Sickle Cell Disorder across Yobe State.
The meeting was attended by several senior government officials, including Honourable Commissioners and other top government functionaries, reflecting the State Government's commitment to addressing health and social welfare challenges through strategic partnerships with credible non-governmental organisations.
During the discussions, the Acting SSG commended the A5 Sickle Cell Support Initiative for its persistent dedication to supporting vulnerable patients through medical assistance, public awareness campaigns, educational support, advocacy, and community-based interventions. He acknowledged the significant impact the organisation has continued to make despite limited resources.
In a landmark commitment, Dr. Mohammed Goje assured the delegation that the Yobe State Government would facilitate the allocation of land for the establishment of the proposed A5 Sickle Cell Support Centre. According to him, the project aligns with the government's vision of expanding access to quality healthcare and improving the lives of vulnerable citizens across the state.
Recognising the economic challenges faced by many individuals living with Sickle Cell Disorder, the Acting SSG also pledged to support vulnerable patients by facilitating employment opportunities within the public service. He noted that providing meaningful employment would not only improve their livelihoods but also promote dignity, financial independence, and better health outcomes.
Furthermore, the Acting SSG promised to engage the Yobe State Ministry of Health to deepen collaboration with the A5 Sickle Cell Support Initiative in areas including patient care, disease awareness, capacity building, policy development, and other interventions aimed at reducing the burden of Sickle Cell Disorder in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the A5 Sickle Cell Support Initiative expressed profound appreciation to the Acting SSG and the Yobe State Government for their warm reception and encouraging commitments. He reaffirmed the Initiative's readiness to work closely with the government and relevant stakeholders to advance quality healthcare services, advocacy, research, and sustainable empowerment programmes for people living with Sickle Cell Disorder.
The visit marks another significant milestone in the organisation's advocacy journey and demonstrates the power of collaboration between government and civil society in addressing public health challenges. The commitments made during the meeting are expected to create lasting opportunities for improved healthcare delivery, economic empowerment, and enhanced quality of life for thousands of people living with Sickle Cell Disorder in Yobe State.
The A5 Sickle Cell Support Initiative remains committed to its mission of giving hope to every warrior through advocacy, healthcare support, education, empowerment, and strategic partnerships that build healthier and more inclusive communities.
Aliyu Bakama
Executive Director
A5 Sickle Cell Support Initiative
