Bomba Dauda
The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday passed for first reading a bill seeking to establish Sickle Cell Disorder Research and Therapy Centres across the country.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who represents the Kaduna South Senatorial District, aims to expand access to specialized care for individuals living with sickle cell disorder and to enhance data collection and research efforts in the fight against the condition.
According to Senator Katung, the proposed legislation is designed to provide a comprehensive legal framework for the effective management and administration of the centres. It will also promote education, support, and assistance for patients, families, healthcare providers, and communities affected by sickle cell disorder.
“The burden of sickle cell disorder in Nigeria is among the highest globally, and we must respond with intentional, institutional measures,” Senator Katung emphasized while presenting the bill on the floor of the Senate.
The bill will now proceed to the committee stage for further legislative scrutiny.
