Nigeria Mourns Toyin Adesola, ‘Sickle Cell General’ and SAMI Founder
Nigeria has lost a tireless champion for sickle cell awareness and care. Toyin Ibidunni Adesola, who lived with sickle cell disorder for six decades, passed away on May 11, 2026. Her dedication transformed countless lives. As founder of the Sickle Cell Advocacy and Management Initiative (SAMI), she built a respected organization that offered support, education, and advocacy for patients and families. Under her leadership, SAMI’s campaigns reduced stigma and promoted early detection nationwide. She also served as the longest-standing Chairman of the Coalition of Sickle Cell NGOs. Her work united healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocates around a common goal: better care and dignity for all living with the condition. Friends, colleagues, and community members continue to pay tribute to her legacy of empathy, resilience, and service. Funeral arrangements will be announced by her family in the coming days.
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