GSK: We shall Re-energize Blood Donors with Lucozade Sparkling

In tandem with its brand existence, Lucozade Sparkling (convalescent), from the stable of GlaxoSmithKline Nigeria Plc has thrown its weight behind voluntary blood donation in the state.

Speaking at the occasion of World Blood Donor Day which provides special opportunity for a united, global celebration for those who voluntarily donate their blood and encourage others to consider how donating blood saves live, Chika Adibo, Marketing Manager, Lucozade Sparkling, expressed gratitude for the partnership and avowed GSK’s commitment to re-energize more voluntary donors and support subsequent events.

However, voluntary blood donation in Nigeria is not a common norm evidently because of poor awareness among people. Over time, young people especially in Lagos State perceive blood donation as one of the economic means of survival which is albeit unethical.

During the 2009 World Blood Donor Day, held in Surulere, Lagos State, Prof Ibironke Akinsete, Chairman of the State Blood Transfusion Committee disclosed that it was an offence to transfuse blood that does not carry Lagos State logo and warned uncertified private blood banks to desist from transfusing blood.

“Private blood banks are not allowed to run so as not to constitute danger to the life of Lagos State residents,” she warned.