OPTIMUS BANK LAUNCHES BLOOD DONATION DRIVE

Optimus Bank has launched a blood donation drive in Lagos as part of efforts to support healthcare delivery and help address Nigeria’s shortage of blood supplies.

The initiative was organised under the bank’s corporate social responsibility platform, Impact Starts With Us, with the theme “Give Blood. Give Life.” It brought together employees, stakeholders and members of the community to donate blood.

The bank said the initiative was aimed at encouraging voluntary blood donation and supporting patients who require transfusions during medical emergencies, childbirth, surgery and treatment for certain illnesses.

According to the World Health Organisation, Nigeria requires an estimated 1.8 million to two million units of blood annually, while 371,827 units were collected in 2024.

The blood drive was conducted with technical support from the Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion at Lagos University Teaching Hospital to ensure appropriate medical and safety standards.

Optimus Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ademola Odeyemi, said the initiative reflected the bank’s commitment to supporting communities beyond its financial services.

The bank said it would continue to support initiatives in healthcare, education, empowerment and environmental sustainability through its Impact Starts With Us platform.

The initiative is part of efforts to promote a culture of regular voluntary blood donation and strengthen access to blood for patients who need it.