The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has called on Nigerians to become advocates for eye health within their communities, stressing that regular eye check-ups and awareness are essential to preventing avoidable vision loss.
The National Eye Health Programme, Dr Oteri Okolo made the call in Abuja on Thursday while representing the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, at an event commemorating the 2025 World Sight Day, themed “Love your eyes: People at the heart of eye health.”
She emphasised that eye health is not merely a medical concern but a critical component of national development, welfare, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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“I use the opportunity to advocate for regular eye check-ups, and to encourage us to schedule routine comprehensive eye exams, not only for ourselves, but for our patients and our families,” she said. “Be an advocate for eye health in your community, encourage your loved ones to do the same, and also spread the word about the importance of end detection of eye diseases. Together, we can make a difference and help prevent avoidable visual loss.”
The event also marked the launch of a new $75 million global initiative by Sightsavers, in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies, to improve access to quality eye care in Nigeria, other low- and middle-income countries, and the United States.
According to the Country Director of Sightsavers, Prof. Joy Shua’ibu, the programme will support the training of health workers and teachers in basic eye health screening, provision of eye examinations and glasses, and community outreach.
She noted that prioritising vision and eye care in Nigeria could significantly enhance education and economic productivity, while reducing inequalities.
World Sight Day is observed annually on the second Thursday of October to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining healthy vision.
