Lagos: Loveworld Medicaid, a member agency of the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International, has provided free eye treatment to over 18,000 individuals with eye challenges, significantly improving their vision. The Assistant Director of Loveworld Medicaid, Dr. Olajumoke Ola-Akisanya, announced this during a news briefing commemorating World Sight Day and marking the one-year anniversary of the Loveworld Medicaid Vision 10,000 Free Eye Surgery Initiative.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative, which began in May 2024, focuses on indigent and underserved communities, offering free eye care services that include screenings, medical check-ups, surgeries, and free eyeglasses across the country. The program has restored sight and improved vision for individuals in Africa and Asia, impacting lives and communities.
Ola-Akisanya reported that 725 corrective eye surgeries were successfully performed, and 8,507 prescription glasses were distributed. Additionally, 8,069 individuals received essential medications to manage their eye conditions. Thousands of diagnostic screenings and consultations took place in various communities, including Olusosun, Ibeju-Lekki, Isolo, Abule-Egba, and Warri, as well as in Mumbai, India.
She emphasized that the Vision 10,000 Free Eye Surgeries Initiative aims to eliminate avoidable blindness, ensuring that lack of financial resources does not leave anyone in the dark. Ola-Akisanya highlighted the global health challenge of visual impairment, noting that 1.1 billion people worldwide live with vision loss, with Nigeria accounting for over 24 million individuals affected.
The intervention's significance was underscored by stories of hope rekindled, such as children who can now read clearly. Ola-Akisanya expressed gratitude to the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation and other partners for their support.
Mr. Emeka Eze, Clinical Director at Loveworld Medical Centre, described the initiative as transformative and urged affluent Nigerians to support those unable to access medical care. He noted that many cases require only minimal intervention, which remains inaccessible for some.
One beneficiary, Elizabeth Solomon, who had been blind for a decade, regained her sight after surgery and expressed her gratitude to Loveworld Medicaid and its sponsors for enabling her to engage with her children and live without fear.