A recent medical outreach in Abeokuta has highlighted the alarming rate of eye problems in Nigeria, with approximately 23 million people suffering from various eye defects. According to Adedayo Adelanwa, a stakeholder in the health sector, this surge can have significant economic implications, as it affects the productivity and economic capacity of those afflicted. He noted that about 25 % of the Nigerian population suffers from one eye problem or another, which can have far‑reaching consequences for the country’s economy.
The two‑day free medical outreach, which included glaucoma surgery, was organized by the Ade Ti De Development Initiative, a non‑governmental organization founded by Adelanwa. During the event, Adelanwa emphasized the need for government commitment to addressing the challenge, citing the World Health Organization’s 2040 agenda to eradicate avoidable blindness. He stressed that collaborations between NGOs, healthcare professionals, and government agencies will be crucial in providing accessible and affordable eye‑care services.
Dr. Richard Ojeme, lead optometrist, identified refractive errors and glaucoma as the primary causes of vision impairment in Nigeria. Quoting the WHO, he stated that 77.9 % of mild vision loss and visual impairment are the most common challenges faced by the Nigerian population.
The outreach aimed to treat 1,000 patients; so far, over 600 have been attended to, and 500 medical eyeglasses have been provided to those in need. Additionally, the NGO has committed to covering surgery costs for 50 patients. One beneficiary, Adebayo Adedeji, expressed gratitude for the initiative, highlighting its importance in addressing eye problems, particularly during difficult economic times.
The event serves as a reminder of the need for sustained efforts to tackle the growing issue of eye health in Nigeria as the country strives to meet the WHO’s 2040 agenda.
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