Bukola Afeni
The Nigerian Optometric Association FCT Chapter has commemorated this year’s World Optometry Week initiative with the provision of comprehensive eye care services to over 1,000 residents across the FCT.
The body also had a series of impactful eye care medical outreaches aimed at improving access to quality eye care services for residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The week-long activities, designed to reach underserved communities, culminated in a grand eyecare medical outreach held at the palace of the Chief of Garki, Garki Chief’s Palace.
During the eyecare medical outreach, beneficiaries received thorough eye examinations, including visual acuity assessments, alongside general health checks such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and Body Mass Index (BMI) measurements. High-quality reading glasses were also dispensed to those in need at no cost.
This year’s World Optometry Week, themed “A Shared Vision: Collaboration in Global Eye Care,” was held from March 22 to March 28, underscoring the importance of partnerships in advancing accessible and affordable eye health services.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Garki, HRH (Dr.) Usman Nga Kupi, commended the association and its partners for the initiative.
He described the eyecare medical outreaches as timely and impactful, urging government bodies and well-meaning organizations to continually support the health needs of residents within the chiefdom.
The Chairman of the association, Dr. Njezi Chinedu, expressed appreciation to the traditional ruler for his support and hospitality. He disclosed that the team had so far attended to about 400 individuals, with a target of 500, and had successfully dispensed over 360 eyeglasses.
Dr. Njezi emphasized the importance of routine eye examinations, encouraging residents to consult licensed optometrists or qualified eye care professionals even before experiencing noticeable vision problems. He also warned against the dangers posed by unregulated social media vendors and harmful traditional eye medication practices, noting their long-standing negative impact on eye health.
Beneficiaries of the programme expressed gratitude to the association and its partner, Rolan Foundation, highlighting the quality of the eyeglasses provided and the high cost of the medications, which were distributed free of charge.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Tolani Adetutu, who received a pair of glasses, affirmed the thoroughness of the examination and expressed deep appreciation for the intervention.
The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the Chief of Garki as a symbol of appreciation and a commitment to sustained collaboration.
