BY CASSIUS LAMAI
The Chairman of Etsako Central Local Government Area, Hon. Cephas Yakubu, in partnership with the Edo State government has flagged off a three-day free eye care initiative in Fugar, the council’s administrative headquarters.
The programme, which commenced at the Unone Comprehensive Health Centre, offers free eye screening, treatment, and cataract surgeries to residents across the local government.
Speaking at the launch, Hon. Yakubu explained that the initiative aims to improve access to essential eye care services for people of all ages, especially those who cannot afford treatment.
According to him, the screenings are designed to detect a wide range of eye conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and amblyopia.
He assured that patients diagnosed with conditions requiring surgery would be promptly scheduled for treatment.
“The programme is inclusive and accessible to children, adults, and the elderly, and it is being carried out across major health centres in the local government,” Yakubu said.
He emphasised the importance of regular eye examinations, not only in preventing visual impairment, but also in identifying underlying health issues early.
The chairman expressed appreciation to Governor Monday Okpebholo for initiating the state-wide health intervention, which he described as timely and impactful, especially for residents with limited financial means.
Also speaking at the event, the Team Administrator, Dr. GodsGlory Braimoh, encouraged residents to participate fully and make use of the opportunity to safeguard their vision.
The Assistant Director of Nursing Services in Etsako Central, Mrs Oghiadomhe Etu Evelyn, hailed the programme as a remarkable development and appealed to the state government to consider conducting similar initiatives quarterly to meet the growing healthcare needs of the people.
The programme is expected to benefit over 2,000 residents
