From Sylvanus Viashima, Jalingo
A Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC), Israel Rimamchika Yabkwa, has organised a nationwide blood drive to encourage voluntary donors in four cities across Nigeria to mark his 28th birthday.
Yabkwa told journalists that the initiative, which is taking place in Lagos, Abuja, Jos, and Jalingo, aims to address the urgent need for safe blood in hospitals.
“Instead of throwing a party, I decided to celebrate by sharing the most priceless gift, the gift of life. We mobilised donors nationwide, and each one made a tangible difference. The importance of this cannot be overstated; one pint of blood can save up to three lives, meaning every donor is a hero in someone’s story. Each pint of blood donated has the potential to save a life, creating a tangible impact in the communities served.
“Birthdays are often about receiving, but I wanted mine to be about giving. As Dr Mike Murdock says, ‘What you make happen for others, God will make happen for you.’ Knowing that my special day could directly help save lives made it the most meaningful way to celebrate.”
He noted that the exercise faced some hurdles, including myths and misconceptions about blood donation, low public awareness, logistical issues, and donor anxiety, and specifically noted that in one state, a government hospital demanded a huge payment for voluntary blood donation.
“Many people, once they understood the impact, showed great enthusiasm to participate. Some even committed to becoming regular donors. Across the four cities, we saw genuine excitement and willingness to help, which was inspiring.”
“You don’t have to be wealthy or powerful to save lives; you just need a healthy body and a willing heart. Today, it might be a stranger who benefits from your donation, but tomorrow, it could be someone you love, or even you.”
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