[In Focus] Illegal blood trade as cause for blood shortages in public hospitals in northern Nigeria

WHO recognises blood as an essential medicine, yet many regions face critical shortages. In sub-Saharan Africa, insufficient blood donations and concerns about blood safety exacerbate the problem. Recent calls for prioritising blood transfusion as a global health priority highlight the urgency of addressing these challenges. Here we report on illegal blood trade as a significant, under-reported factor threatening safe blood supply and contributing to preventable maternal and child mortality. Although locally affordable interventions can improve transfusion practices, increased repeat voluntary blood donation is crucial to meet the increasing demand.