The Kogi Ministry of Health has commended Sightsavers, an international NGO, for donating 480 navigation devices (white canes) to the visually impaired through the State Board for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The State Coordinating Commissioner for Health, Dr Adeiza Abdulazeez, made the commendation on Friday in Lokoja during the celebration of the 2026 World Sight Day in the state.
Abdulazeez, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Maji Enoch, said the devices were donated to the PWD board for the use of visually impaired persons in the state.
“The ministry commends Sightsavers for its sustained partnership with the state government in promoting eye care.
“This intervention has helped in preventing avoidable blindness and improving access to healthcare by the visually impaired.
“The State Ministry of Health is committed to sustaining its collaboration with Sightsavers,” he said.
He noted that the organisation is a valued development partner in strengthening healthcare delivery and expanding access to essential eye care services.
The Executive Secretary of the State PWDs Board, Mr Abulhakeem Yakubu, while receiving the items, thanked Sightsavers and the health ministry for their continued support to PWDs.
Yakubu commended Gov. Ahmed Ododo for his support to the board and his administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of PWDs in the state.
“The white canes will be distributed to eligible beneficiaries during the 2026 White Cane Day celebration, scheduled for Oct. 15.
“This donation will help improve the mobility, independence and living standards of the beneficiaries.
“The board is committed to promoting the welfare and inclusion of PWDs,” he said.
It was reported that the ministry’s Eye Care Programme, in collaboration with the Ophthalmology Society of Nigeria (OSN) Kogi chapter, conducted an awareness tour to mark the day.
The theme of the awareness is “Love Your Eyes,” as residents were sensitised on the importance of regular eye examinations and proper eye care.
The white cane device helps visually impaired persons to navigate their surroundings safely and independently.
