The National Librarian/CEO, Prof. Chinwe Anunobi, has affirmed that the intersection of knowledge, culture, literacy, behaviour, and access to credible information are key antidotes against Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). 

She stated this in a keynote address titled: “The Power of Knowledge and Literacy in Combating Sickle Cell Disease - Building a Healthier and More Productive Nigeria”, at the public presentation of the book, "Sickle Cell Anemia: The Audacity of Hope" by Mrs. Funmilayo Braithwaite. The event was held on Wednesday, 29th July, 2026 at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja.

Prof. Anunobi noted that the theme extends beyond medicine into education, information, public policy, and national development. She explained that SCD is an inherited disorder of haemoglobin where red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped, blocking blood flow and reducing oxygen supply to body tissues. She added that Nigeria, accounts for roughly one-third of all global births of children with SCD.

According to the National Librarian, the solution lies in placing knowledge at the center of national development.  “Government should not only invest in hospitals, but also in libraries, schools, research institutions and lifelong learning,” she said. 

She advised that the burden of SCD can be reduced by building a society where knowledge shapes attitudes, literacy informs choices, and responsible behaviour becomes our collective culture, describing this as “transformative literacy” – knowledge translated into action that changes behaviour.

Earlier, the Chief Launcher, Apostle Femi Lazarus, commended the Young African Writers Foundation and the Founder/Author. He described the book as “a tool for education, advocacy and social transformation” and stressed that SCD should not define a person or limit their future.

The National Librarian/CEO was accompanied by some top management of the National Library of Nigeria, including: Mrs. Ngozi Odogwu - Director, Planning, Research & Statistics, Mr. Joseph K. Ojo - Director, Public Services Department, Mrs. K. Abdulazeez - Head, Legal Deposit Department, Mrs. Rachael Neboh - Head, Virtual Library Services Department. Others are Mr. Baba Mohammed and Mrs. Chinwe Enekayi, Special Assistants on professional matters and special duties respectively.