Students of the Federal University, Lokoja have been advised to reflect on how science, solidarity, and social responsibility converge in the simple but profound act of donating blood, an act which he said continues to save millions of lives globally every year.
The Executive Director, Kogi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Muazu Omeiza Musa gave the advice at a programme to commemorate the 2026 Blood Donor year held at the E-learning Centre, Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State.
The event which is aimed at establishing a Blood Donor club for the University, is organized by the Directorate of Welfare, Student Union Government of Federal University, Lokoja in collaboration with the University Health Services and the National Blood Transfusion Agency, Lokoja with the theme; “From awareness to Action -Harneseing the power of Consistent Blood Donation”.
Blood Donor Day is organized to raise awareness, Highlight the need for regular blood donations to save lives, Appreciates donors, Recognizes and thank blood donors for their life-saving contributions, Promote voluntary donation, Encourage people to donate blood voluntarily without expectation of payment, ensure blood safety, emphasize the importance of safe blood transfusions and screening procedures as well as support medical care and help to ensure a stable blood supply for patients undergoing surgeries, treatments, and emergencies.
By celebrating World Blood Donor Day, positive impacts could be made and also help to ensure a steady supply of safe blood for those in need.
Represented by the Desk Officer, Sector Wide Approach (SWAP), Dr. Emmanuel Bola Jonah, the Executive Director noted that “In a world driven by rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence, and biomedical innovation, it is striking that one of the most irreplaceable medical resources still depends entirely on human generosity.
According to him, though Blood cannot yet be manufactured, it must be given freely, voluntarily, and repeatedly stressing that every year, millions of lives are saved because someone, somewhere, chose to donate blood.
According to him, from mothers experiencing complications during childbirth, to children with severe anaemia, to accident victims and cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, safe blood is essential to modern healthcare systems.
Dr. Muazu Omeiza Musa regretted that despite medical progress, many countries continue to face critical blood shortages saying the challenge is not science alone but the creation of awareness, access, and attitude.
The Executive Director however expressed delight that Blood donation today is safer than ever noting that rigorous screening, advanced testing technologies and strict ethical standards have been put in place to ensure the protection of both donors and recipients.
Declaring the event open, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi commended the Directorate of Welfare of the student Union Government (SUG) for their commitment to ensuring that the Blood Donors Club is in place.
In welcome address, the Director of Welfare, Hassan Gimba Aminu, called on students to commit themselves to the course of the club and urged all to generously donate to safe a life.
With the inauguration of the Federal University Lokoja Blood Donors Club, the institution is set to join hands with the University Health Services and the National Blood Transfusion Agency, Lokoja, to help safe lives of thousands of people who are in desperate need of blood related issues within the University and it’s environs.
Joseph Adama
Information Officer
KSPHCDA
