The Nigerian Society for Haematology & Blood Transfusion(NSHBT) and the Nigerian Red Cross are marking the wbbd across the country. The commemoration which will involve other NGOs will be in form of sensitization of the population which so far have not been very active in voluntary non-renumerated donors.
An essay competition is also being planned for students in secondary schools with the theme being ''Blood, a gift for life''.
Recognition plaques would be presented to those who have consistently and regularly donated blood in the past, in states where there are such people.
It is hoped that following the sensitization and awareness the day would generate, some people would be recruited as voluntary and regular donors. Mobile Donor centres are to be available for those willing to donate, who are found fit.
It is hoped that if eventually, not all states in Nigeria are covered this year, the reach would be increased in subsequent years.
The NSHBT is also hosting the Africa Society for Blood Transfusion congress in September 2004. We hope that these would all act in synergy to improve donor attitude in Nigeria .