As the world marked World Sickle Cell Day, the wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has called on Nigerians to embrace early genotype testing, informed health decisions, and greater support for people living with sickle cell disorder.

Speaking in a message to commemorate the global awareness day, Dr. Soludo stressed that sickle cell disorder is not just a medical condition but a lifelong challenge that requires compassion, understanding, and collective support from society.

According to her, many cases of sickle cell disease can be prevented through proper genotype awareness and responsible health decisions before marriage. She emphasized that awareness alone is not enough, as Nigerians must also have access to quality healthcare services and accurate information.

"Today, we stand in solidarity with individuals and families affected by sickle cell disorder," she stated. "As we raise awareness, let us encourage early testing, informed health decisions, and greater access to quality healthcare services."

The governor's wife also paid tribute to millions of people living with the condition, describing them as courageous warriors who continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience despite the physical, emotional, and financial challenges associated with sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell disorder remains one of the most common inherited blood disorders in Nigeria, with thousands of children born with the condition every year. Health experts have repeatedly emphasized that genotype testing before marriage remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the burden of the disease.

Her message serves as another reminder that knowing one's genotype is not merely a medical recommendation but a life changing decision that can help families avoid preventable heartbreak in the future.

As conversations around healthcare continue to grow, many Nigerians have praised the renewed call for early testing, describing it as a critical step toward reducing the prevalence of sickle cell disease and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.