An emotional moment unfolded at the 2026 World Sickle Cell Day Symposium in Makurdi as Professor Joseph Aondowase Orkuma, Dean of Basic Clinical Sciences at Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, received a prestigious Award of Appreciation for his unwavering commitment to the care and support of people living with Sickle Cell Disease in Benue State.
The award presentation took place during the symposium organised by the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in collaboration with Kids & Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC), His Marvellous Grace Support Foundation (HMGSF), and the Shem Sickle Cell Advocacy Foundation (SSCAF).
The recognition came as a complete surprise to Professor Orkuma, who had no prior knowledge of the honour.
Witnesses described the moment as deeply moving, as the respected academic and healthcare advocate was visibly overcome with emotion upon receiving the national award.
Presenting the award on behalf of the organising partners, Martin-Mary Falana, Chief Executive Officer of Kids & Teens Resource Centre, commended Professor Orkuma for years of selfless service to sickle cell warriors across the state.
Speaking before an audience of over 100 persons living with Sickle Cell Disease, caregivers, healthcare professionals, students, and community leaders, Falana noted that the professor’s contributions extended far beyond his official responsibilities.
He described him as a compassionate healthcare professional whose commitment has brought hope, dignity, and improved healthcare access to countless families affected by the condition.
The ceremony’s highlight came when Mercy Ede, State Coordinator of Shem Sickle Cell Advocacy Foundation, shared personal testimonies of Professor Orkuma’s impact on warriors in the state, dating back to his tenure as Head of Department.
Many recounted how he provided support, guidance, advocacy, and encouragement during some of their most difficult moments.
She emphasised that his dedication reflected genuine concern for the wellbeing and welfare of vulnerable patients. The overwhelming testimonies drew applause from participants and reinforced the significance of the recognition.
In his acceptance remarks, Professor Orkuma expressed profound gratitude to the organisers and the sickle cell community for the honour.
He stated that he never imagined that his efforts would one day be recognised through a national award.
He dedicated the recognition to all healthcare workers who continue to serve vulnerable populations despite numerous challenges and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the welfare of people living with Sickle Cell Disease.
The event also served as a powerful call to action for healthcare providers across Nigeria. Organisers emphasised that Professor Orkuma’s recognition should inspire greater empathy, compassion, and patient-centred care within the health sector.
According to stakeholders at the symposium, quality healthcare is not only about treatment and diagnosis but also about understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals living with chronic conditions and responding with dignity and humanity.
The symposium further highlighted ongoing efforts by the Benue State Government to improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations.
Participants commended the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia for strengthening health services and supporting initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for persons living with Sickle Cell Disease.
Organisers noted that the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Ejeh Paul Ogwuche, has consistently identified sickle cell warriors as a priority group within the state’s healthcare response framework.
Barrister Alexander Dogo, founder of Shem Sickle Cell Advocacy Foundation, which was borne out of personal pain after he lost his cousin brother, Shem, to the disease, commended the organisation of this year’s World Sickle Cell Day and thanked all the partners for their support.
According to him, nothing for people with Sickle Cell could be achieved without them. He implored the government to meaningfully involve people with Sickle Cell in planning for their welfare.
As World Sickle Cell Day 2026 was commemorated, the recognition of Professor Joseph Orkuma stood out as one of the day’s most memorable moments, a fitting tribute to a man whose compassion, dedication, and service have touched countless lives.
The award serves as a reminder that empathy remains one of the most powerful medicines available to healthcare professionals and that selfless acts of care can leave lasting impacts on individuals, families, and entire communities.
