By Richard Eweka
BRNIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare with a free eye care outreach that benefited over 100 citizens and government workers.
The event, held to mark the 2025 World Sight Day, provided free eye screening, corrective glasses and medications to participants.
The exercise, themed “Love Your Eyes: Vision for Everyone,” is part of the governor’s healthcare reform agenda aimed at expanding access to preventive and curative medical services.
Governor Okpebholo, represented by his health team, said the outreach reflects his belief that “a healthy and productive society begins with clear vision, both physically and in leadership direction.”
The Governor’s Special Adviser on Health Matters and Personal Physician, Dr. Precious Ogboru, said the initiative was inspired by Okpebholo’s compassion and visionary leadership.
She explained that since the governor assumed office, the Government House Medical Centre has been transformed into a modern primary healthcare facility.
Dr. Ogboru revealed that before Okpebholo’s reforms, the clinic handled about 50 patients monthly, but now attends to over 50 patients daily.
“What used to be a two-room clinic is now a fully equipped medical facility capable of handling emergencies and admissions,” she stated.
She added that the governor’s healthcare agenda goes beyond civil servants. “Governor Okpebholo’s vision is clear; a healthy workforce and healthy citizens form the backbone of a productive state,” Ogboru said.
Permanent Secretary, Government House and Protocol, Pastor Edith Sede, praised the governor’s leadership, describing him as “a man who leads with both heart and vision.”
She noted that the free eye care outreach is another demonstration of his people-centred governance.
In his lecture, ophthalmologist Dr. Abraham Ohihoin stressed the importance of regular eye checks, describing vision as “the lamp of the body and one of God’s most precious gifts.”
He commended the state government for deploying more eye specialists across Edo’s senatorial districts and upgrading hospitals with modern ophthalmic equipment.
Dr. Ohihoin also advised citizens to protect their eyesight by avoiding direct sunlight, smoke and dust exposure, and using proper lighting while reading or working.
“Governor Okpebholo’s investment in eye health is not just about treating ailments,” he said.
“It is about preserving the productivity and potential of Edo people.”
