By: Adelowo Oladipo, Minna
The Niger State Government has launched a statewide Free Eye Care Campaign to restore sight and expand access to quality eye care services for residents.
The initiative is being implemented through the Ministry of Health in partnership with Qatar Charity Nigeria and Middle East Clinic, Kano.
Declaring the programme open on Tuesday on behalf of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, described the intervention as “life-changing,” noting its potential to transform the lives of thousands affected by avoidable blindness.
“Today is more than the commencement of a medical outreach, it is a day of renewed hope for thousands of our people whose lives will be transformed through access to quality eye care,” he said.
Garba stressed that many residents, particularly in underserved communities, suffer from preventable blindness due to poverty and limited access to specialist care.
He explained that the programme will provide free eye examinations, medications, prescription eyeglasses, and cataract surgeries across centres in Minna, Bida, Kontagora, Suleja, and Kuta.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana, highlighted blindness as a major public health concern with significant social and economic implications.
He disclosed that the outreach had already achieved remarkable results: over 2,300 people screened, 700 eyeglasses distributed, more than 2,000 treated with medications, and 380 cataract cases identified for surgery. He added that the initiative aligns with the New Niger Agenda, which prioritises accessible, affordable, and equitable healthcare delivery.
Head of Programmes at Qatar Charity Nigeria, Mr. Irshad Ali Sheikh, said the intervention is part of the organisation’s global efforts to combat avoidable blindness.
He revealed that the programme targets screening over 2,400 residents, with at least 400 expected to benefit from free cataract surgeries. In addition, 270 white canes and food support packages will be distributed to vulnerable families.
Sheikh noted that Qatar Charity operates in more than 50 countries and has implemented similar projects in Gombe, Yobe, and Borno states, with plans to expand further across Nigeria.
He also disclosed ongoing discussions with the Niger State Government on constructing a model primary healthcare centre to strengthen service delivery.
Director of Medical Services and Training, Dr. Usman Abubakar Bosso, commended the partnership, describing it as a major boost to the state’s fight against avoidable blindness. He reported that within just four days, over 3,000 patients had been screened, with about 300 identified for cataract surgery, assuring of the team’s commitment to a successful outreach.
The flag-off event featured distribution of items to beneficiaries, a facility tour, and interactions with patients, as stakeholders expressed optimism about the programme’s impact on restoring sight and improving lives across Niger State.
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