Ambassador Eniola Cole, a well-known advocate for health and youth development, has intensified her campaign to eliminate Sickle Cell Disease in Africa, using her personal story to inspire action. She recently hosted a major event at the National Museum in Lagos to mark Juneteenth and World Sickle Cell Day. The gathering served as a platform to launch several empowerment programs focused on young women and public health.
Cole revealed that she once battled Sickle Cell Disease but now claims her genotype miraculously changed from SS to AA. Recalling her diagnosis at age 13, she said she never expected to live this long. She credited her survival to divine intervention and said the experience pushed her to write a book titled Finally Free, which she plans to distribute in schools.
The event drew notable guests, including Prof. Remi Sonaiya, Nigeria’s first female presidential candidate, and US Senator Kevin Parker. Also present was Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chair of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, represented by Mr. Dipo Odebowale. They spoke on topics such as leadership, cultural identity, and the urgent need to support women across Africa.
Beyond speeches, the event featured direct acts of support. Cole gave ₦100,000 each to eight orphans, donated two years’ worth of free sanitary pads, and distributed business starter kits. The kits contained her book and others like AI in Entrepreneurship: A Nigerian Perspective and AI in Real Estate, designed to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.
Dabiri-Erewa praised Cole’s efforts, stating that empowering young people to become leaders and problem solvers could change not just Nigeria but the entire continent. Cole also announced upcoming programs, including the Raising Young Women Conference at Lagos State University on June 24 and her candidacy in the July 12 Lagos local government election. She invited young leaders to register for the Billaeon Billionaires Conference in September, where a six-month mentorship initiative will begin.
Prof. Sonaiya urged young women to run for political office and take charge of their futures. Senator Parker emphasized the role of cultural heritage in building strong leaders. Cole closed by thanking supporters like Dr. Ken Ukeagu, Chief Sunday Agwa Audu, and Mrs. Uloma Osuala, while encouraging the audience to invest in personal growth and be ready to contribute meaningfully to society.
The event combined advocacy, education, and real-time support, shining a spotlight on sickle cell awareness, youth empowerment, and leadership for Africa’s future.
