By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare for Nigerians, with a focus on combating cataract-induced blindness.
Speaking at the launch of the Foundation’s free cataract screening and surgery program for 1,000 people at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi Aba, Abeokuta, the Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, represented by Deputy Manager of Special Projects, Teniola Abu, highlighted the significance of the initiative.
Arukwe noted that cataracts are among the leading causes of blindness globally, accounting for 50% of blindness cases in Nigeria, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). She stressed that limited access to quality eye care in underserved areas, such as parts of the South-West, exacerbates the socio-economic challenges posed by blindness.
“This programme is designed to address these challenges by providing free cataract screenings, surgeries, and public education on eye health,” she said. “We aim to restore sight to up to 1,000 individuals in the South-West. This is not just about numbers; it is about transforming lives—enabling breadwinners to regain their livelihoods, empowering students to pursue education, and restoring the joys of life to those affected.”
Successful Surgeries and Impactful Stories
Dr. Anne Amugo, Lead Consultant Physician for the Foundation, revealed that over 600 individuals have been screened in Ogun State and more than 100 in Lagos State, surpassing the initial 1,000-target goal. To date, 100 cataract surgeries have been successfully completed, including sight restoration for three children born blind.
“One of these children was previously referred to the University College Hospital but couldn’t receive treatment due to financial constraints. The restoration of their sight has brought immense joy to their families,” Amugo shared.
She added that the initiative not only prioritizes indigent individuals but also extends benefits to others in need, reaffirming the Foundation’s role as a responsible corporate citizen.
Community and Stakeholder Support
The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Adelola Matemilola, and the Chief Medical Director of FMC Abeokuta, Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu, commended the NNPC Foundation for its impactful intervention. They called for the exercise to become a regular occurrence, citing its significant contribution to improving the well-being of residents.
