By Monsurat Abisoye
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on Nigerians to adopt voluntary blood donation as a regular practice to help save lives across the country.
In a message marking the 2026 World Blood Donor Day on Sunday, the agency’s Director in Jigawa State, Ahmad Tijjani, stressed the importance of voluntary, consistent blood donation to support patients in critical need.
World Blood Donor Day, observed annually on 14 June, recognises and appreciates the contributions of voluntary blood donors worldwide. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Twenty years of celebrating giving: thank you, blood donors.”
Tijjani noted that every unit of donated blood can provide life-saving support during accidents, surgical procedures, and other medical emergencies. He added that blood donation also plays a vital role in improving maternal health and assisting people living with sickle cell disease, cancer, and other health conditions.
Describing blood donation as an act of solidarity, he said it strengthens communities and offers hope to millions of patients in need of urgent medical attention.
He further explained that safe voluntary blood donation often encourages relatives and friends to become donors, helping to increase the availability of blood supplies. He also advised prospective donors to maintain proper nutrition and stay well hydrated before donating blood.
The NOA director urged Nigerians to take responsibility by volunteering to donate blood, seeking accurate information from trusted health sources, promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging safe practices, and supporting blood banks and community health systems.
Tijjani reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to creating awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation as part of efforts to save lives nationwide.