His call to action came during the launch of OneSCD, a global partnership aimed at advancing equity in sickle cell care, held at the United Nations alongside the 81st General Assembly.
Salako stressed the need for the initiative to transition from mere rhetoric to tangible action, sustainable financing, and measurable outcomes in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. He noted that Nigeria carries the heaviest burden of sickle cell disease, with approximately 150,000 to 180,000 babies born with the condition annually.
Globally, nearly eight million people are affected, with over 75% residing in sub-Saharan Africa. Salako highlighted that many children succumb to preventable complications before reaching their fifth birthday, signaling an urgent need for coordinated international intervention.
Describing sickle cell disease as a national priority, Salako revealed that Nigeria has integrated it into key health agendas, including child survival and universal health coverage. The Federal Government is enhancing its response through a national program supported by a dedicated steering committee and guidelines for management.
Pilot newborn screening initiatives are already underway in Lagos, Kano, and the Federal Capital Territory. The government has also established six centers of excellence equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to improve specialized care.
Efforts to improve access to affordable diagnostics and treatment are ongoing, alongside training for healthcare workers and establishing referral networks. Salako emphasized the importance of sustainable financing through health insurance and public-private partnerships to alleviate the financial burden on affected families.
Despite the significant challenges, Salako criticized the global response to sickle cell disease, citing inequities and structural barriers. He sees the OneSCD partnership as a pivotal opportunity to unite political leadership, expertise, and resources for meaningful country-led action.
As a champion country, Nigeria has committed to four main goals: integrating early diagnosis into healthcare systems, enhancing accountability through data and targets, ensuring that those affected are central to policy design, and advocating for sickle cell disease on global health agendas.
Salako called on multilateral institutions, development partners, and the private sector to collaborate and invest in strengthening health systems. He concluded with a powerful reminder that no child should suffer due to their place of birth.
The OneSCD initiative is a collaborative effort involving Nigeria and countries like Uganda, India, Jamaica, and St. Kitts and Nevis, along with organizations like UNICEF and the World Health Organization.
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