The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm, NNPC Foundation, has initiated a free cataract screening and surgical intervention program targeting 1,000 individuals in Nigeria’s southwest region.
The program began on January 8 at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi Aba, Abeokuta, with plans to expand nationwide. Speaking at the event, Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director of NNPC Foundation (represented by Deputy Manager of Special Projects, Teniola Abu), emphasized the urgency of addressing cataracts, a leading cause of blindness in Nigeria.
“Cataracts account for 50% of blindness cases in the country. Limited access to quality eye care worsens this challenge, leading to social and economic crises,” Arukwe stated.
The initiative has already surpassed its initial target, screening over 700 individuals in Ogun and Lagos states, completing 100 successful surgeries, and restoring vision for three children born blind.
Anne Amugo, Lead Consultant Physician, praised the program’s impact, noting:
“This initiative demonstrates NNPC Foundation’s commitment to improving the lives of indigent Nigerians by restoring vision, independence, and productivity.”
The foundation aims to extend the program to 3,000 individuals across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Screening centers will be established in Kaduna, Rivers, Ondo, Benue, Imo, and Gombe states, accompanied by workshops and public education on eye health.
The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Adelola Matemilola, and FMC Chief Medical Director, Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu, lauded the program, urging the NNPC Foundation to sustain such impactful interventions.
“This initiative transforms lives by empowering breadwinners, enabling students to continue their education, and restoring dignity to many,” Arukwe concluded.
Through this program, the NNPC Foundation underscores its commitment to improving public health and fostering social well-being nationwide.
