By Kemi Olatunde
The Ondo State Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening safe blood services and encouraging voluntary blood donation.
Speaking during the 2026 World Blood Donor day which was organised by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with APIN Public Health Initiative in Akure on Thursday, Director of Laboratory Services, Mrs Bamitale Adedotun-Banjo emphasized the critical role blood donors play in saving lives and urged residents of the state to embrace regular blood donation as a civic and humanitarian responsibility.
Addressing participants, health officials, partners, and stakeholders, the Director described blood donors as selfless heroes whose generosity continues to provide hope for thousands of patients requiring lifesaving medical interventions.
She expressed appreciation to the state government and the Ministry of Health for their sustained efforts toward improving healthcare delivery and ensuring access to safe and quality blood services across the state.
She also recognised the efforts of development partner, APIN Public Health Initiatives, for its continued collaboration with the state in advancing public health programmes noting that APIN’s support has significantly enhanced community engagement, health screening campaigns, blood donation drives, and other health interventions across the state.
She noted that blood remains one of the most essential resources in healthcare, stressing that it cannot be manufactured artificially and can only be obtained through donations from healthy individuals.
She called on eligible residents to become regular donors and advocates for blood donation within their communities.
The Director urged members of the public to take advantage of such opportunities, noting that a single donation could save multiple lives and provide hope to families facing medical emergencies.
She called for collective action to promote voluntary blood donation, strengthen safe blood services, and ensure that no patient is denied access to lifesaving blood when needed.