The Nigerian Senates have taken a significant legislative step to enhance care for sickle cell disorder nationwide with the successful second reading of a crucial bill.
The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Establish Sickle Cell Disorder Research and Therapy Centres to Expand Access to Specialized Sickle Cell Disorder Care, Improve Data Collection and Research, Support Education and Assistance for Patients, Families, Providers and Communities Affected by Sickle Cell Disorder, and for Related Matters, 2025 (SB. 893),” aims to create dedicated research and therapy centres across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory.
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who led the debate, the bill seeks to broaden access to specialized care, enhance data collection, and boost public education and support systems for patients and families impacted by the genetic condition.Senator Tahir Monguno, Chief Whip of the Senate representing Borno North, called on relevant agencies to intensify public sensitization efforts regarding genotype compatibility before marriage as a preventive measure against the transmission of the disorder.
The bill received broad backing from Senators, who emphasized its urgent necessity due to the hereditary nature of sickle cell disorder and the need for heightened public awareness about its causes.After thorough discussions, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau put the bill to a voice vote, which it passed, marking an important move towards establishing a stronger national framework for sickle cell research, therapy, and education.This development brings Nigeria closer to addressing sickle cell disorder through strategically placed specialized centres across the country.
