Nigerian Student Dies After Paid Plasma Donation in Canada, Raising Safety Concerns
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A Nigerian student in Canada, Rodiyat Alabede, and another individual have died after participating in paid plasma donation at a Winnipeg collection centre, prompting concern among Nigerians both in Canada and abroad.
Ms. Alabede passed away in October 2025, while the second death occurred in January 2026. Both reportedly suffered severe adverse reactions shortly after donating plasma.
The centre, operated by Grifols, a Spanish company producing plasma-based medicines, offers donors financial compensation of up to $100 per donation, with higher incentives for frequent contributors.
Friends of Ms. Alabede, who moved to Canada in 2022 to study at the University of Winnipeg, described her as cheerful and ambitious, leaving many shocked by her sudden death.
Canadian authorities stated there is currently no confirmed link between the plasma donations and the deaths, and investigations by federal regulators are ongoing.
Grifols issued a statement saying there is no evidence suggesting the fatalities are related to the donation process, citing available information at this time.
The deaths have sparked calls on social media for increased scrutiny of paid plasma donation programs, with Nigerians urging transparency and safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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