The wife of the Katsina State Governor, Zulaihat Radda, has inaugurated a free cataract surgical camp to provide eye surgeries, medications, and corrective glasses to residents suffering from eye problems.
The exercise, launched on Wednesday in Katsina, is being implemented with support from the Noor Dubai Foundation and its local partner, the Inclusive Eye-Care Foundation. It is organised through Mrs. Radda’s pet project, the Safe Space Humanitarian Initiative (SASHIN), in collaboration with the Katsina State Ministry of Health.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Radda said the initiative was inspired by the far-reaching impact of blindness and visual impairment on human development.
“The Noor Dubai Foundation’s commitment to preventing blindness and promoting eye health is truly commendable,” she said.
“We deeply appreciate this partnership and are proud to be part of a humanitarian effort that aligns with the governor’s vision of ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for all residents.”
She added that the programme would not only restore sight but also empower individuals, families, and communities — fostering economic growth, social inclusion, and overall well-being.
Expressing delight over the initiative, Mrs. Radda said she was pleased that people in the state would have access to quality eye-care services capable of transforming lives and strengthening collective well-being.
“The prevention of long-term visual impairment and avoidable blindness remains one of the key priorities of my husband’s administration,” she said.
“In line with this vision, our government continues to work closely with reputable organisations such as the Noor Dubai Foundation to deliver sustainable healthcare interventions that ensure all citizens live healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.”
Citing a 2020 survey, Mrs. Radda noted that there are at least 25,000 blind people in Katsina State, many of whose conditions could have been prevented through timely and quality medical care.
She said the partnership underscores the urgency of strengthening the healthcare system, expanding access to preventive services, and renewing commitment to citizens’ well-being.
“This partnership represents more than a medical intervention — it symbolises hope, compassion, and the power of collective responsibility,” she added.
“By providing eye screenings, surgeries, and treatment to those in need, this initiative is restoring vision, dignity, and opportunity to countless individuals and families across our state.”
Earlier, Dr. Manal Taryam, Chief Executive Officer of the Noor Dubai Foundation, said the organisation has improved the lives of more than 33 million people across Asia and Africa since its inception in 2008.
Represented by Dr. Mansir Rabiu, the foundation’s Director of Operations, Taryam said the organisation has provided comprehensive eye care services — including surgeries, medications, and glasses — to beneficiaries in several countries.
