The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Foundation has provided free cataract surgeries to 500 individuals in Niger State.
Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director of the NNPC Foundation, announced this during the programme in Minna on Friday, May 2, 2025.
Arukwe, represented by Alhaji Adamu Sani, said the initiative aims to restore vision to 6,000 Nigerians nationwide.
She confirmed that 1,000 individuals from the North-Central Zone would benefit from the ongoing programme.
“We are committed to building an inclusive society, and this programme reflects that commitment,” Arukwe said.
She added that the initiative had already covered the South-West, South-East, and South-South Zones.
The programme offers free cataract screenings, surgeries, and public education on eye health and blindness prevention.
Arukwe noted that cataracts account for nearly 50 percent of blindness cases in Nigeria.
She highlighted the urgent need for accessible and affordable eye care services across the country.
Dr. Bello Tukur, Niger State Commissioner for Secondary and Tertiary Health, praised the foundation’s intervention.
Tukur disclosed that the state has a backlog of 5,000 untreated cataract patients.
He stated that around 500 new cataract cases emerge in Niger State every year.
Tukur stressed that the programme operates on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring fairness to all.
He appealed to the NNPC Foundation for more support, including critical medical equipment such as microscopes.
Dr. Halima Isah, Chairperson of the Eye Care Programme in Niger, provided further details about beneficiary distribution.
She confirmed that 200 patients were selected from Minna and 300 from Bida for the surgeries.
Alhaji Abdullahi Sai’du, Community Head of Bosso, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the NNPC Foundation.
He said the programme has restored hope to many individuals who had lost their vision.
Beneficiaries Fatima Sallah, Maryam Suleiman, and Aisha Musa shared emotional testimonies.
They described the surgeries as life-changing and essential for restoring their independence and quality of life.
The NNPC Foundation reiterated its mission to reduce avoidable blindness and improve public health nationwide.
Health experts emphasized the importance of continuous eye health awareness and regular screenings.
They urged Nigerians to seek early diagnosis and treatment for eye-related issues.
The cataract surgery programme is expected to continue across other zones in the coming months.
Community leaders and health officials commended the foundation for its impactful outreach and sustainable health initiatives.
The NNPC Foundation pledged to maintain its focus on improving lives through healthcare and community development. (NAN).
Post Views: 35
