Blood Service Gets a Boost as NYSC Pledges Full Support for NBSA The National Blood Service Agency (NBSA) has received a major boost as the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has pledged full support in promoting voluntary blood donation across the country. The commitment was made by the Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General Yusha’u Dogara Ahmed, during a courtesy visit by the leadership of NBSA to the NYSC headquarters in Abuja.Speaking during the visit, the Director General of NBSA , Prof Saleh Yuguda emphasized the critical role of voluntary blood donation in saving lives, particularly in maternal health, accident and emergency cases, paediatric care, and managing conditions such as sickle cell disease and cancer. He noted that youths, particularly corps members, represent a significant group of potential donors who can contribute to building a sustainable blood supply in Nigeria. As part of the collaboration, NYSC will integrate blood donation awareness into its orientation programmes, encouraging corps members to participate in periodic blood donation drives. In addition, NBSA proposed key initiatives, including the posting of NYSC doctors to its operational centres, the creation of a Community Development Service (CDS) group focused on blood donation advocacy, and the adoption of slogans such as “Service Beyond the Uniform: Donate Blood” and “A Drop Today, A Life Tomorrow.”Brigadier General Ahmed reaffirmed NYSC’s commitment to the partnership, recognizing the initiative as a means of fostering a culture of voluntary blood donation among Nigerian youths. He assured NBSA of the scheme’s readiness to support the noble cause, stating that corps members are well-positioned to drive awareness and participation in blood donation programs across the country.This collaboration is expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s blood supply system, ensuring a steady flow of safe and adequate blood for medical needs nationwide.
