Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter, Adekunle Gold, has revealed that he is still battling sickle cell disease, a genetic blood disorder he has lived with since childhood.
The award-winning artist made the disclosure in a recent interview shared on social media, where he spoke about his ongoing health challenges and how the condition has shaped his life.
At 38, the “Orente” crooner said he continues to experience sickle cell crises — painful episodes caused by the blockage of blood flow due to abnormal red blood cells.
“I still have crises,” he said, describing the severe pain and fatigue that come with the condition.
Adekunle Gold, born Adekunle Kosoko, shared that he has been on lifelong medication since he was about five years old. He recalled his earliest experience with the illness, describing it as a difficult moment that changed his understanding of life.
“The first time I noticed I had it was the night I fell sick, my dad wasn’t home, and my mum carried me on her back for miles to the hospital,” he said. “I don’t remember how old I was, maybe five or seven. That was when the doctor told me about sickle cell and said I would be taking folic acid and B complex for the rest of my life.”
He explained that growing up with the condition meant living with frequent pain in his joints, legs, and stomach — symptoms commonly associated with sickle cell crises.
“When we talk about crisis, it is pain in your joints, legs, and sometimes stomach. It’s really crazy,” he said.
The singer used the interview to raise awareness about the importance of genotype testing before marriage. He emphasised that many people in Nigeria are unaware of their genetic compatibility, which often leads to children being born with sickle cell disease.
“Where sickle cell is more popular or where people know it most is my country, Nigeria,” he said. “It happens when an SS matches an SS. That’s why knowing your genotype is very important because you should not bring more kids that have sickle cell.”
Adekunle Gold revealed that both his parents are carriers of the sickle cell trait, which led to him being born with the disease.
“Unfortunately for me, my parents are sickle cell and they brought me into the world,” he said.
He added that his goal is to use his platform to create more awareness and push organisations to do more in educating people about genotype testing and sickle cell management.
“My vision is to make more noise about it because a lot of people don’t know about it, and important organisations are not doing enough,” he noted.
Despite the struggles, Adekunle Gold said his condition has become more manageable with age, discipline, and access to proper healthcare. He expressed gratitude for the progress he has made and the resources that allow him to live a healthy and active life.
“I still have crises once in a while but not as bad as when I was a child,” he said. “Maybe because I’ve found a way to take care of myself more properly. I’m grateful to God for the resources to be able to do that.”
The singer, who has built a successful music career with hit songs like “Something Different,” “Okay,” and “5 Star,” said his journey with sickle cell has taught him strength and resilience.
