The Federal Government has honoured media executives and journalists for their efforts in promoting voluntary blood donation, recognising their role in saving lives and encouraging civic responsibility.
The awards were presented during a media engagement themed “From Headlines to Lifelines: Media Advocacy for Voluntary Blood Donation”, held on Monday in Abuja.
The event marked the 2025 National Blood Donor Day, organised by the National Blood Service Agency (NBSA).
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Saleh Yuguda, Director-General of NBSA, highlighted the pivotal role of media in sustaining awareness about safe blood donation practices.
He urged journalists to move beyond reporting problems to showcasing actionable solutions that inspire communities to donate blood regularly.
“Media platforms are powerful tools to educate, mobilise communities, and hold institutions accountable on issues surrounding blood donation,” Professor Yuguda stated, emphasising the importance of consistent advocacy.
Also addressing participants, Jibrin Ndache, Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), encouraged journalists to frame blood donation as a national emergency and patriotic duty.
He called on young Nigerians, especially members of Gen Z, to embrace regular blood donation as part of their civic contribution.
Represented by Dr. Salaudeen Jimoh, Director of Hospital Services, Professor Muhammad Pate, Minister of Health and Social Welfare, acknowledged the strategic partnership between the media and healthcare sector.
He encouraged news organisations to integrate voluntary blood donation into editorial plans, CSR initiatives, and human-interest stories, noting that sustained media advocacy strengthens the nation’s blood supply ecosystem and safeguards lives.
During a panel discussion titled “Advancing Media-Driven Advocacy for Safe Blood in Nigeria”, journalists reaffirmed their commitment to driving awareness campaigns.
They also called for stronger policy implementation, increased funding, and robust collaboration between the media and relevant agencies to address the persistent shortage of blood in the country.
Among the award recipients were notable figures including Professor Pate, Jibrin Ndache (VON), Justina Auta (NAN), Sumner Shagari-Sambo (Arise News), Joseph Kadiri (ANHEJ), Chibuike Alagboso (Nigeria Health Watch), Ojoma Akor (Health and Science Africa), and Ezesimbu Ogom (AIT).
The recognition underscored the federal government’s commitment to leveraging media influence to foster a culture of voluntary blood donation, highlighting the sector’s role in national healthcare resilience.
