By Mubarak Aliyu Kobi
The Governor of Bauchi state Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has officially launched an eye care initiative known as the Sightquest Nigeria Programme, aimed at improving access to quality eye health services for residents of the state.
The programme is supported by the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Christian Blind Mission, Albasar International Foundation and Vision Aid Suisse, with a focus on reducing preventable blindness and strengthening eye care delivery systems.
Speaking during the launching ceremony held at the Government House Bauchi, Governor Bala Mohammed highlighted his administration’s achievements in the health sector, including the declaration of a state of emergency on health, increased budgetary allocation and investment in human resource development.
The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Sani Dambam, disclosed that no fewer than 1,000 people in the state have already benefited from hearing aid devices provided through the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation.
He also commended the efforts of Makka Specialist Eye Hospital and its partners for their commitment to supporting eye care services in Bauchi State, assuring that the state government will continue to provide the necessary support to ensure the success of the programme.
In his remarks, the Regional Director of the Albasar International Foundation, Dr. Moheildin Abdullah, highlighted the organisation’s contributions through Makka Specialist Eye Hospital across Nigeria, including Bauchi, particularly in providing eye treatment and surgical interventions.
Also speaking, the Country Programme Manager of the Christian Blind Mission, Michael Idaho, explained that the organisation currently operates in 21 states across Nigeria, focusing on tropical diseases, eye health services and community inclusive programmes.
Another representative of Albasar International Foundation, Dr. Azmat Shah, noted that Bauchi State currently has one of the highest numbers of Primary Eye Health Centres in Nigeria, adding that the centres are actively engaged in community mobilisation and awareness campaigns on eye health.
Speaking on the objectives and expected outcomes of the programme, the Regional Advisor of the Christian Blind Mission, Dr. Kolawole Ogundimu, said more than 20,000 people are expected to benefit from free cataract surgeries in Bauchi State over the next five years, while over 600,000 residents will benefit from other interventions such as human resource development and strategic collaboration.
In a vote of thanks, the Emir of Duguri, represented by Alhaji Muhammad Inuwa, commended all stakeholders involved in the initiative, noting that the programme would significantly improve eye health services and positively impact the lives of the people at the grassroots.
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