…Saves Over 1.5 Million Lives
..Recruits Over 2 Million Voluntary Blood Donors
By Kehinde KOLAWOLE
The Lagos State Blood Transfusion Services (LSBTS), a pivotal arm of the Lagos State Government, proudly reports a remarkable milestone: saving over 1.5 million lives. Since its inception, LSBTS has also successfully recruited over 2 million blood donors, a testament to the community’s spirit and the agency’s relentless commitment to public health. Through these dedicated efforts, LSBTS continues to be a beacon of hope, providing critical support and life-saving blood to those in need across Lagos.
During a keynote address at the Radisson Blu Hotel in GRA, Ikeja, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu commemorated the 20th anniversary of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS). Speaking at the symposium, he highlighted the significant milestones achieved by LSBTS over the past two decades, underscoring its critical role in improving public health in Lagos. The event marked a moment of reflection and celebration for the dedicated service that has consistently ensured a safe and adequate blood supply for the state’s hospitals and patients. Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted a concerning paradox in the state’s blood donation efforts: despite a yearly rise in donors, the reliance on coercive methods remains troubling. He emphasized the urgent need for a united, community-driven push to foster voluntary blood donation, moving away from any form of compulsion. “We have saved over 1.5 million lives and recruited over 2 million blood donors, with about 10.2% of them being voluntary. Despite the increasing number of donors annually, Lagos still depends on various forms of coercive blood donations,” he said.
At a timely symposium themed “Pioneering the Path and Shaping the Future of Blood Services in Nigeria,” the Lagos State Governor, through the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, affirmed the state’s dedication to enhancing blood transfusion services. Lagos State is resolute in its mission to develop robust infrastructure and embrace modern technology, ensuring that every pint of blood transfused is safe and infection-free.
“In Lagos, we will ensure that the Lagos Blood Transfusion Services have adequate infrastructure. We will align with global standards and use the most advanced technology to provide absolutely safe blood, free from the possibility of transmitting any type of blood infection, particularly HIV,” he said. Governor Sanwo-Olu has underscored the pivotal role of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Services in safeguarding the blood supply chain, from collection to transfusion. He affirmed that the agency is committed to maintaining the highest standards, ensuring that all blood products are handled with utmost care and in accordance with global best practices. This dedication, he noted, reflects the state’s ongoing efforts to prioritize the health and safety of its citizens.
The Governor reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to sustainable and high-quality healthcare. He urged all healthcare workers to work collaboratively and avoid rivalry, emphasizing that every role is vital to achieving sustainable healthcare goals.
The official pledged unwavering support to healthcare workers, promising to maintain and enhance the facilities and resources essential for their crucial roles. He emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering an optimal work environment and ensuring the infrastructure needed for effective healthcare delivery remains robust and comprehensive.
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, lauded the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS) for reaching a significant milestone in efficient service delivery. She highlighted that LSBTS pioneered the establishment of a legal framework for a blood transfusion committee, setting a precedent in the field. Dr. Ogunyemi commended their adoption of cutting-edge technology to ensure that blood transfusions adhere to the highest standards, reflecting a commitment to best practices and patient safety.
“Lagos state was the first to enact a law for establishing a committee on blood transfusion in Nigeria, the first to commence the use of a WHO-recommended testing method—Semi-automated ELISA technology—the first to implement full automation in blood screening technology, the first to own Pathogen Reduction Technology, the first with an active and well-structured hemovigilance program, and the first in convalescent plasma collection for managing emerging infectious diseases,” she said.
In her welcome address, Dr. Bodunrin Osikomaiya, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Committee (LSBTC), celebrated the agency’s remarkable achievements. She credited their success to a blend of passion, strong political support, and technological innovations. Looking ahead, Dr. Osikomaiya shared an ambitious vision for the next decade: achieving 100% voluntary blood donation and inaugurating a dedicated blood transfusion service center. Her address painted a future where the agency’s efforts would further revolutionize blood donation and transfusion services in Lagos State
“We eagerly anticipate the next decade when we will have 100% voluntary blood donation and a standalone, all-inclusive blood transfusion service center. We aspire to elevate the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Committee to the level of those in developed countries,” she said.
In a symposium attended by eager minds, Major General Olatilewa Amusu (rtd) took the stage, his presence commanding attention. With precision and passion, he painted a vivid picture of blood transfusion as the lifeblood of healthcare, a relentless savior in both mundane and dire circumstances. Each drop a beacon of hope, collectively forming a tapestry of millions of lives saved annually.
In a stirring address, Amusu underscored the imperative of erecting and fortifying a centralized hemovigilance system. This system would serve as the cornerstone for perpetually enhancing the quality of the transfusion process. Through rigorous corrective and preventive measures, it would safeguard the safety of both donors and patients, ensuring a seamless and secure journey for the life-giving gift of blood.
Signed Tunbosun Ogunbanwo Director, Public Affairs 4th June, 2024
