October 31, (THEWILL) — Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has opened up about his lifelong battle with sickle cell disease, revealing that despite better management in adulthood, he still experiences painful health crises.
In a recent interview, the 38-year-old singer recounted how his journey with the condition began at age five, describing the pain and physical toll it has taken on him over the years.
“I still have crises… When we talk about a crisis, it’s pain in your joints, your legs, and sometimes your stomach. It’s really crazy,” he said.
Adekunle Gold recalled how his mother carried him on her back to the hospital the night he first fell seriously ill while his father was away.
“The first time I noticed that I had it was the night I fell sick. My dad wasn’t home, and my mum had to carry me on her back for miles to the hospital,” he shared.
While the musician said the frequency and severity of his crises have reduced, he credited improved self-care and access to resources for the progress.
“I still have crises once in a while but not as bad as when I was a child. Maybe because I’ve found a way to take care of myself properly. I’m grateful to God for the resources to be able to do that,” he said.
Adekunle Gold also urged Nigerians to prioritize genotype awareness before marriage, stressing that ignorance about the condition still endangers many lives.
“Knowing your genotype is very important. It’s sad that many people still don’t understand the risks. Unfortunately for me, my parents are both sickle cell and brought me into the world. That’s why I’m passionate about creating more awareness,” he added.
Reacting to speculation that he had undergone a bone marrow transplant, the singer dismissed the claim, saying, “It’s how you people say things you don’t know with so much confidence. No, I haven’t done a bone marrow transplant.”
Beyond his music, Adekunle Gold has become one of Nigeria’s most vocal advocates for sickle cell awareness, using his platform to inspire and educate those living with the condition.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
