As part of its commitment to supporting laudable initiatives as well as promoting the culture of giving, leading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, collaborated with the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, to mark the 2017 World Blood Donor Day.
Every year, on 14th June, the world Blood Donor day is celebrated around the world to raise awareness for safe blood donation and blood products, while recognizing voluntary blood donors for their self-sacrifices.
The focus of this year’s campaign, What can you do? Give blood. Give now. Give often, was conceptualized out of the increasing demand for blood during emergencies, encouraging eligible donors to strengthen the emergency preparedness of health services in their communities by donating blood.
A public lecture and a blood donation drive also held at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital’s main hall. The event highlighted the health benefit of blood donation and also celebrated individuals and corporate organizations that have demonstrated passion and commitment to the cause.
During the event, Airtel was recognized with an award for Selfless Service and commended for its consistent support to the Blood Transfusion service of the Hospital.
Speaking during the event, Head of Haematology Unit, LUTH, Dr. Titilola Adeyemo appreciated Airtel’s continued partnership with the institution in raising awareness about blood donation.
According to Adeyemo, “the level of awareness about blood donation is relatively low in Nigeria. Partnering with Airtel Nigeria has gone a long way in helping to educate the people about the benefits of blood donation as well as get more Nigerians to donate blood which will help save lives.”
The World Blood Donor Day has been celebrated annually since 2004, and it is one of eight official global public health campaigns marked by the World Health Organization (WHO).
