The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on Nigerians to embrace voluntary blood donation as a civic responsibility, warning that thousands of lives remain at risk due to persistent shortages of safe blood across the country.
Speaking at the commemoration of World Blood Donor Day 2026, the WHO Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Pavel Ursu, hailed voluntary blood donors as “silent heroes” whose selfless acts save lives daily and strengthen the nation’s healthcare system.
Addressing stakeholders, healthcare professionals, development partners and donors, Dr. Ursu said the theme of this year’s celebration, “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives,” highlights the critical role blood donation plays in saving lives and supporting emergency healthcare services.
According to him, thousands of Nigerians require blood transfusions every day, including women facing complications during childbirth, children battling severe malaria and anaemia, accident victims, surgical patients and people living with chronic illnesses.
“Blood donation is one of the purest expressions of solidarity and humanity. A single donation can save multiple lives and provide hope for families facing medical emergencies,” he said.
Dr. Ursu noted that access to safe blood and blood products remains a cornerstone of resilient health systems and a key requirement for achieving Universal Health Coverage and health security.
While commending the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Blood Service Agency and other partners for improving Nigeria’s blood transfusion system, he stressed that major challenges still exist.
He lamented that voluntary, non-remunerated blood donation in Nigeria remains below the level required to meet growing national healthcare demands.
According to WHO recommendations, countries should collect at least 10 blood donations per 1,000 population to meet basic clinical needs, but many countries in Africa, including Nigeria, are still struggling to attain that benchmark.
“With Nigeria’s growing population and healthcare demands, expanding the pool of regular voluntary blood donors is no longer optional; it is essential,” Dr. Ursu stated.
He explained that blood sourced from regular voluntary and unpaid donors remains the safest, urging government, institutions and communities to intensify awareness campaigns, strengthen donor recruitment and retention programmes, and improve blood service infrastructure nationwide.
Dr. Ursu disclosed that WHO is currently providing technical support for the review of Nigeria’s National Blood Policy to incorporate emerging trends such as hemovigilance and strengthen blood safety measures.
He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through policy guidance, regulatory strengthening, quality assurance, workforce development and improved access to safe blood services.
Paying tribute to blood donors, the WHO country representative described them as compassionate individuals whose contributions continue to save countless lives.
“You are silent heroes whose generosity embodies the spirit of humanity and solidarity that sustains communities,” he said.
Dr. Ursu also appealed to young people, faith-based organisations, institutions and community groups to join the campaign for regular blood donation and help dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding the practice.
“As we commemorate this day, let us remember that when we give blood, we give far more than a medical resource. We give hope, dignity and a second chance at life.
“Indeed, one drop of humanity can save a life, strengthen a community and inspire hope,” he added.
World Blood Donor Day is observed annually to raise awareness about the need for safe blood and blood products while celebrating voluntary donors whose contributions help save millions of lives worldwide.
