On June 14, 2025, as the world marked World Blood Donor Day, Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, called on Nigerians to donate blood to save lives, emphasizing the importance of voluntary blood donation in addressing the country’s critical need for safe blood.
The 2025 theme, “Give blood, Give hope: together we save lives,” highlights the hope and life each donated drop carries. The First Lady, represented by the Wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, participated in the Abuja City Marathon Walk from Millennium Park to Eagle Square to commemorate the day and promote awareness.
Established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2004, World Blood Donor Day aims to recognize voluntary unpaid blood donors and encourage regular blood donations globally. In Nigeria, the demand for safe blood far exceeds supply, with challenges including low donor turnout and concerns over blood safety.
Kwapchi Bata Hamman, Special Assistant Media & ICT to the President (Office of the Vice President), noted that the day has become significant worldwide for promoting blood donation through various campaigns.
The First Lady’s appeal aligns with ongoing efforts to increase blood donations, improve transfusion safety, and save lives particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and accident victims. Nigerians are urged to embrace the spirit of solidarity by donating blood regularly to ensure a steady and safe blood supply nationwide.
