By Usman Usman Garba
The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the lives of people living with sickle cell disorder through expanded healthcare services, free treatment initiatives, and intensified public awareness campaigns across the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, stated this on Friday during a press briefing at the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), Kano, to commemorate the 2026 World Sickle Cell Day with the theme, “Ensuring that Every Patient Lives.”
According to a statement issued by the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Nabilusi Abubakar K/Na’isa, the commissioner highlighted significant progress recorded by the Ministry of Health in providing quality healthcare services for individuals affected by sickle cell disorder.
Dr. Yusuf described sickle cell disease as a major public health challenge requiring collective action by government, healthcare providers, communities, and families.
He disclosed that under the Abba Care Health Programme, persons living with sickle cell disorder now receive comprehensive healthcare services free of charge.
He explained that the initiative is one of the flagship interventions of the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf aimed at reducing the financial burden on affected individuals and their families.
The commissioner expressed concern over the high prevalence of sickle cell disease in Kano State, noting that the hereditary condition continues to affect thousands of children, often resulting in severe health complications and, in some cases, premature death.
He explained that the disease is genetically transmitted and can largely be prevented through proper genotype screening and informed marital decisions.
Dr. Yusuf therefore urged young people and intending couples to know their genotype before marriage, stressing that genotype compatibility remains one of the most effective ways of reducing the incidence of sickle cell disorder.
He encouraged residents not to fear genotype testing, emphasizing that knowing one’s status is essential for making responsible life decisions.
The commissioner further revealed that the state government has commenced newborn genotype screening to ensure babies are tested immediately after birth.
According to him, early diagnosis enables prompt medical intervention, better disease management, and improved long-term health outcomes for affected children.
“Whether you are AA, AS, or SS, it is not something to be ashamed of. What matters is knowing your status and making informed decisions,” he stated.
Dr. Yusuf also appealed to the public to reject all forms of stigma and discrimination against people living with sickle cell disorder, describing them as valuable members of society who deserve equal opportunities, support, and respect.
Also speaking at the briefing, the Executive Secretary of the Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KSCHMA), Dr. Rahila Aliyu Muktar, disclosed that more than 8,000 beneficiaries have so far been enrolled under the Abba Care Programme, with many sickle cell patients already accessing free healthcare services through the scheme.
Both officials commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and improving the welfare of vulnerable citizens across the state.
They also appreciated development partners, healthcare organizations, civil society groups, and media practitioners for their continuous support in promoting awareness, early diagnosis, and quality care for people living with sickle cell disorder.
The event served as a platform for public education, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement, reinforcing the collective responsibility of government, development partners, and communities in reducing the burden of sickle cell disorder and ensuring that every patient lives a healthy and productive life.