COMMERCIAL BLOOD DONATION IN NIGERIA: THE IMPLICATIONS FOR OPTIMUM HEALTH SERVICES

Abstract

Blood donation is a sensitive issue that provokes diverse emotions globally. Blood touches on human life: the abundance or lack of same can give or take life. Globally, efforts have been made to regulate blood donation and blood transfusion ethically and legally. The WHO, ahead of other international organizations took steps through resolutions aimed at regulating blood donation and blood transfusion to preserve the sanctity of human blood. The present research is an attempt to analyze the commercialization of blood donation – its legality or otherwise. What legal frameworks exist for the regulation of blood donation and blood transfusion in Nigeria thereto international instruments? What dangers does commercialization of blood donation pose for the society? The work found that incentives for donors in certain jurisdictions increased blood donations. It is recommended that NBSC should be proactive in its operations to strictly regulate blood donation, collection and circulation throughout Nigeria.