Nigerians on social media have been mourning the passing of Anisa Ishaq-Balogun, a first-class graduate and passionate advocate for people living with Sickle Cell Disease.
Her death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from friends, colleagues, and admirers who followed her inspiring journey. Anisa, who was known on X (formerly Twitter) by the handle @Nerdy_neesah, reportedly passed away on Wednesday after battling sickle cell disease for several years.
Many people who knew her story described her as a calm yet determined fighter who refused to let her health condition define her life or limit her ambitions. Despite the challenges associated with the illness, she excelled academically.
Anisa graduated from the University of Lagos with a first-class degree in Cell Biology and Genetics, earning an impressive CGPA of 4.82 out of 5.00. Her achievements had previously inspired many young Nigerians living with sickle cell disorder, proving that the condition does not determine a person’s potential or future.
One individual who had interviewed her two years earlier during a gathering of first-class graduates organised by Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya at the University of Lagos said he was deeply shocked to hear about her passing.
“Woke up to the news that Anisa 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,” he wrote.
In a statement, the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria confirmed the news of her death and offered prayers for Allah to grant her mercy while giving strength and comfort to her family and loved ones.
Her Janazah prayer and burial were scheduled to take place on Thursday morning at Agege Cemetery.
Part of the statement read:
*“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.”*
Before her death, Anisa once shared a post celebrating her academic success, a message that motivated many people facing similar health challenges.
“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 wrote.
Her life and achievements continue to inspire many, as Nigerians remember her resilience, brilliance, and advocacy for those living with sickle cell disease.
Check out the post below…
