The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and affordability in Nigeria. Speaking at the kick-off of its South-West free cataract screening and surgery initiative, held at the Federal Medical Centre, Idi Aba, Abeokuta, the foundation announced plans to restore vision to 1,000 individuals across the region.
Addressing Cataract-Induced Blindness
Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, the Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, represented by Teniola Abu, Deputy Manager of Special Projects, highlighted the initiative’s importance in addressing cataracts, which remain a leading cause of blindness globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cataracts account for 50% of blindness cases in Nigeria.
“In underserved areas, such as many parts of the South-West, limited access to quality eye care exacerbates the challenge of blindness. This leads to significant social and economic crises as vision loss affects productivity, independence, and quality of life,” Arukwe stated.
Restoring Sight and Transforming Lives
The NNPC Foundation’s program includes free cataract screenings, surgeries, and public education on eye health.
“At NNPC Foundation, we understand that vision is not merely a sense—it is a fundamental enabler of human dignity and opportunity,” Arukwe said. “Through this program, we aim to restore sight to up to 1,000 individuals in the South-West, transforming lives by helping breadwinners regain livelihoods, empowering students, and enabling individuals to experience life’s joys.”
Success Stories and Expanding Reach
Dr. Anne Amugo, the Lead Consultant Physician for the initiative, reported that over 600 people have already been screened in Ogun State, and more than 100 in Lagos State. With 100 successful surgeries completed and three children born with blindness having their sight restored, the program is surpassing its initial target.
“One child, previously referred to University College Hospital but unable to receive treatment due to financial constraints, now has restored sight. This brings immense joy to their families,” Dr. Amugo shared.
The initiative prioritizes indigent Nigerians but also extends services to some non-indigent individuals, reflecting the foundation’s inclusive approach.
Community Leaders and Beneficiaries React
The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof) Adelola Matemilola, and the Chief Medical Director of FMC, Abeokuta, Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu, praised the foundation for its impactful intervention. They called for the free medical program to become a regular exercise, given its transformative effects on residents’ well-being.
One beneficiary, Mr. Ramoni Bankole, expressed gratitude to the foundation, noting that the surgery rescued him from cataract-related blindness. “This initiative has restored my vision and given me a new lease on life,” he said.
A Vision for the Future
The NNPC Foundation’s initiative exemplifies its commitment to addressing critical healthcare challenges and fostering sustainable community development. By providing life-changing medical interventions, the foundation is enhancing the productivity and independence of Nigerians, one vision at a time.
