Nigerian student, another donor die following plasma donation in Canada

 

Canadian health authorities have launched an investigation into the deaths of two individuals — including a Nigerian international student — after they donated plasma at private collection centres in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Plasma is the liquid portion of blood and accounts for slightly more than half of the total blood volume.

Health Canada confirmed it received two reports of fatal adverse reactions involving plasma donors. The incidents were reported in October 2025 and on January 30, 2026.

Both deaths occurred at facilities run by Grifols, a Spanish healthcare company that operates several plasma collection centres across Canada.

One of the deceased, Rodiyat Alabede, a 22-year-old Nigerian student, died on October 25 after donating plasma at the Grifols Plasma Donation Centre located on Taylor Avenue.

Alabede relocated from Nigeria to Winnipeg in 2022 to pursue her studies at the University of Winnipeg.

Mary Ann Chika, a friend of the student, said she identified Alabede at the hospital after she was pronounced dead.

She said doctors provided little information but told her that Alabede’s heart stopped beating while she was donating plasma at the centre.

Health Canada said the second fatal adverse reaction was reported on January 30 following a donation at Grifols’ Innovation Drive location in Winnipeg.

The agency did not disclose the identity of the second individual.

According to the federal regulator, no direct link has yet been established between the plasma donations and the deaths, noting that the reports are still being assessed.

The agency added that inspectors were sent to examine the clinics after the incidents.

Plasma donation works in a similar way to blood donation. After blood is drawn, the plasma — a pale yellow fluid rich in antibodies — is separated while the red blood cells are returned to the donor’s body.

The procedure is widely regarded as safe.

Plasma contains immunoglobulins that help boost the immune system and clotting factors that aid in controlling bleeding. These components are commonly used to treat infections, bleeding disorders and liver disease.

However, donors are advised that side effects may occur, including fatigue, dehydration, dizziness, bruising and fainting.

Grifols, which began operations in Winnipeg in 2022 after acquiring Canadian Plasma Resources, extended its condolences to the families of the deceased.

In a statement, the company said based on available information, “we have no reason to believe that there is a correlation between the donors’ passing and plasma donation”.

The company also stated that all potential donors undergo a comprehensive health history review and physical examination before they are cleared to donate.

Plasma donors at the centres can receive honorarium payments of up to $100 per donation, with additional bonuses offered for frequent donations.

Canadian regulations require all plasma collection facilities to report any serious reaction experienced by a donor during the procedure or within 72 hours after donation to Health Canada.

(The CABLE)