On March 20, the Bunmi Akinsola Sickle Cell Initiative (BASC Initiative) had the privilege of meeting with the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Oyo State, Dr. Ajetunmobi, to explore collaboration opportunities. The BASC Initiative delegation, consisting of Dr. Temitope Ogunjimi, Mrs. Adegbite Pelumi, Mr. Toluwani Oyewole, and Mr. Aremo John Oluwole, arrived at the Commissioner’s office at approximately 2:00 p.m. The team was warmly received by both the Honourable Commissioner and the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ayinde, setting a welcoming tone for a productive discussion.
Dr. Ajetunmobi expressed keen interest in BASC Initiative’s mission, activities, and future goals, highlighting her genuine enthusiasm for how the Initiative could positively impact sickle cell care in Oyo State. She underscored the importance of sustainable healthcare for individuals affected by sickle cell disease (SCD) and encouraged BASC Initiative to leverage the state’s health insurance scheme to support its beneficiaries. This initiative, she explained, would make critical care more accessible to those living with SCD, a condition that often imposes significant financial burdens on families.
The Honourable Commissioner further advised BASC Initiative to submit a formal proposal outlining its mission, vision, and specific requests for support. She suggested that the proposal include an appeal for introductions to the state’s Ministry of Education and key community leaders in both urban and rural areas, which would be instrumental in expanding BASC Initiative’s outreach programs. Additionally, she recommended securing ethical approval to streamline the Initiative’s genotype testing efforts, ensuring compliance and minimizing administrative challenges.
During the discussion, Dr. Ajetunmobi emphasized the value of partnerships with established organizations focused on SCD. She specifically recommended Chrisbol Medical Hospital in Akobo, home to the Champions Sickle Cell Club, as a potential ally. Collaborative efforts with such organizations, she noted, would amplify BASC Initiative’s impact and create a robust network of support and advocacy for sickle cell patients throughout Oyo State.
Mr. Aremo John Oluwole, the Administrative Head of BASC Initiative, shared the personal story behind the Initiative’s founding. He recounted that BASC Initiative was inspired by the loss of Bunmi Akinsola, a vibrant young woman from Ibadan North East Local Government who succumbed to a sickle cell crisis. Her untimely death underscored the urgent need for accessible medical and psychological support for individuals living with SCD—support that BASC Initiative now aims to provide across Oyo State and beyond.
Mr. Oluwole also outlined BASC Initiative’s long-term vision to significantly reduce sickle cell mortality in Oyo State and across Nigeria. The Initiative is committed to raising awareness and improving access to essential services for SCD patients, regardless of age, religion, or ethnicity. With a goal of achieving this vision within the next 20 years, BASC Initiative is determined to expand its outreach programs, enhance awareness campaigns, and collaborate with other health organizations to improve the quality of life for sickle cell patients.
The Honourable Commissioner commended BASC Initiative’s dedication and the importance of its mission. She assured the team of her commitment to supporting the Initiative in achieving its goals and reiterated her belief in the power of partnerships to drive meaningful change. Her vote of confidence further motivated the BASC Initiative team as they continue their efforts to make a lasting impact on the lives of sickle cell patients in Oyo State.
To commemorate the visit and express appreciation for the Commissioner’s support, Mrs. Adegbite Pelumi presented Dr. Ajetunmobi with a BASC Initiative-branded souvenir, including a T-shirt. This gesture symbolized the Initiative’s gratitude for the warm reception and encouragement from the Commissioner and her team. The visit marks a pivotal moment in BASC Initiative’s journey, strengthening its network and opening doors to impactful collaborations that promise to advance the fight against sickle cell disease in Oyo State.
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