The final journey of renowned sickle cell advocate, humanitarian, and nonprofit leader, Toyin Ibidunni Adesola, fondly known as the “Sickle Cell General,” has officially begun as her family and the Sickle Cell Advocacy and Management Initiative (SAMI) announced details of her funeral rites.
According to the Adesola Family and SAMI, a Service of Songs and Night of Tribute will take place on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at The Lekki Coliseum (TLC), Lekki Phase One, Lagos, from 4:30 p.m., while the funeral service will hold on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the same venue by 10:00 a.m.
To honour the late advocate’s lifelong commitment to humanity and community service, guests attending the tribute night are encouraged to wear aso ebi or a touch of deep red, while attendees for the funeral service are expected to appear in deep green with gold gele or fila as a symbol of celebration of her impactful legacy.
Toyin Adesola passed away on May 11, 2026, at the age of 60. Until her death, she remained one of Nigeria’s most respected and influential voices in sickle cell advocacy.
Through SAMI, the organisation she founded, Adesola dedicated her life to promoting genotype education, counseling, psychosocial support, healthcare advocacy, and awareness campaigns for individuals living with sickle cell disorder.
She also served as the longest-serving Chairman of the Coalition of Sickle Cell NGOs, where she played a pivotal role in uniting advocacy groups and driving national conversations on sickle cell care, inclusion, and public enlightenment.
Her resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication earned her admiration across Nigeria’s healthcare, humanitarian, and civil society communities, with many affectionately referring to her as the “Sickle Cell General.”
The family further disclosed that condolence registers have been opened at the SAMI Centre in Surulere, Lagos, for friends, partners, and sympathisers. Details regarding the aso ebi for the tribute event are also available at the centre.
In addition, an online tribute page has been opened for friends, colleagues, and loved ones to share memories and condolences in honour of the late humanitarian.
Even in death, many believe Toyin Adesola’s legacy of advocacy, compassion, and service will continue to inspire generations and strengthen the movement she devoted her life to building.