Nigerians on social media have been lamenting the death of Anisa Ishaq-Balogun, a first-class graduate and advocate for sickle cell patients.
Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends, colleagues, and admirers.
Anisa, known on X as @Nerdy_neesah, reportedly died on Wednesday after suffering sickle cell disease for several years.
Many who followed her journey described her as a calm yet resolute fighter who refused to let her health condition limit her objectives.
Despite the obstacles she encountered, she excelled academically. She graduated from the University of Lagos with a first-class degree in Cell Biology and Genetics and a CGPA of 4.82 out of 5.00.
Her tale has already inspired many young Nigerians living with sickle cell disease, illustrating that a person’s abilities and destiny are not defined by the ailment.
One person who interviewed her two years ago at a gathering of first-class graduates arranged by chess champion Tunde Onakoya at UNILAG said he was devastated to learn of her death.
“Woke up to the news that Anissa passed away yesterday. I interviewed this SS warrior two years ago at the event Tunde organised with first class graduates at UNILAG. Seeing so many people talk about her in the comments now… man, it’s really sad,” the mourner wrote.
In a statement, the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria acknowledged her death and asked Allah to grant her mercy while strengthening her family and loved ones.
Her Janazah prayer and burial were scheduled for Thursday morning in Agege Cemetery.
“In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.
With heavy hearts and complete submission to the will of Allah, we announce the passing of our dear sister, Anisa Ishaq-Balogun, who returned to her Lord during this blessed month of Ramadan.
The loss of a believer is always painful, and in this sacred month it reminds us even more of the reality of our return to Allah.”
Prior to her death, Anisa had written a post honouring her academic success, which inspired many people suffering similar health issues.
“Can we skip to the good part?.. B.Sc. Cell Biology and Genetics (4.82/5.00). Who says having sickle cell disease is a barrier to academic excellence? Definitely not me!” she tweeted.
See post below…
Kindly Share
Related Video
