A non-governmental organization, Ade Ti De Development Initiative, has raised alarm over the increasing number of Nigerians suffering from eye problems. The group revealed that more than 23 million people across the country are currently living with sight-related challenges.
The founder of the NGO, Adedayo Adelanwa, said this on Sunday during a two-day free eye care outreach in Abeokuta, Ogun State. At the event, no fewer than 1,000 residents benefited from free eye tests, consultations, eyeglasses, and medicines.
Adelanwa described the figure as disturbing. He said the most common eye problems include refractive errors, cataracts, and glaucoma.
He added that many of those affected cannot afford proper treatment due to financial hardship. This, he said, was what inspired his organization to launch the programme.
“I am doing this to give back to the people and also support government efforts. More than 23 million Nigerians suffer from eye problems, and many lack the money to seek care. I started this initiative out of love for my people, to show them that we care,” he said.
The lead optometrist at the outreach, Dr. Richard Ojeme of St Richardson Eye Consult, explained that refractive errors and glaucoma are the leading causes of poor vision in Nigeria.
He cited research showing that nearly 78 per cent of visual impairments in the country are linked to these conditions.
Ojeme praised the NGO’s efforts, noting that the project supports the World Health Organization’s goal to end avoidable blindness by 2040.
He said the outreach had already screened over 600 patients, distributed 500 pairs of eyeglasses, and given out medicines based on medical assessments.
“Our target is 1,000 patients. So far, we have reached 600, provided 500 glasses, and dispensed drugs. For those needing surgery, the NGO has pledged to cover the cost for 50 patients,” Ojeme added.
He commended the group’s humanitarian spirit and urged other individuals and organizations to join in such efforts, stressing that collective action is needed to tackle Nigeria’s growing health challenges.
One of the beneficiaries, Adebayo Adedeji, thanked the NGO for bringing hope to people struggling with eye problems.
He described the outreach as timely and impactful, saying it has helped many who had resigned themselves to living with untreated eye conditions because of lack of money.
Adedeji also appealed to wealthy individuals and corporate bodies to support similar causes, noting that true wealth is that which uplifts others.
The outreach lasted two days, during which the NGO committed to funding surgeries for 50 patients with severe eye conditions, while hundreds of others received treatment and corrective lenses.
The NGO also announced plans to expand the programme in December, adding free screenings for hypertension, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases to further improve community health.
