Nigerian music sensation Adekunle Gold has officially launched a new health-centered initiative designed to provide critical support to people living with sickle cell disease.
Through his charitable organization, the Adekunle Gold Foundation, the award-winning Afrobeats artist introduced the groundbreaking project named 5 Star Care. This initiative is set to deliver completely free and comprehensive health insurance coverage to 1,000 Nigerians who are affected by sickle cell disease.
The program was unveiled in honor of World Sickle Cell Day and is being implemented in collaboration with several key health institutions including the Lagos State Health Scheme Management Agency (LASHMA), Sickle Cell Management Initiatives (SAMI), and the Lagos State Ministry of Health. Beneficiaries of this initiative will gain access to regular medical checkups, emergency health services, and sustained long-term medical care to ease the economic burden that comes with managing sickle cell in Nigeria.
Adekunle Gold, who has publicly shared his personal journey with sickle cell anemia through his music — especially in the song 5 Star — stated that the initiative was inspired by his own experiences living with the condition. In his words, “Every life deserves 5-star care. I know the pain, the prayers, and the strength it takes to smile through it.”
The Adekunle Gold Foundation has long been active in advocating for the sickle cell community, and this latest effort aligns with its broader vision to improve the lives of people impacted by the condition. According to health reports, Nigeria holds the highest global number of sickle cell cases, with approximately 150,000 babies born with the condition annually, and about 75% of the world’s total eight million cases occurring in Africa.
In addition to the insurance program, the foundation is teaming up with researchers from New York University (NYU) to carry out an in-depth study exploring how sickle cell disease affects the mental health and daily lifestyle of those diagnosed. The research also aims to evaluate how creative expressions such as music and storytelling could act as effective support tools alongside traditional medical treatments.
Individuals interested in applying for the 5 Star Care initiative can do so through the Adekunle Gold Foundation's official website.