A non-governmental organisation, Ade Ti De Development Initiative, has raised concerns over the rising number of Nigerians suffering from eye defects, revealing that more than 23 million citizens are currently living with sight-related challenges.
The founder of the initiative, Adedayo Adelanwa, disclosed this on Sunday during a two-day free eye care outreach in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where at least 1,000 residents benefitted from free eye tests, medical consultations, eyeglasses, and medication.
Describing the statistics as alarming, Adelanwa noted that common eye conditions in Nigeria include refractive errors, cataracts, and glaucoma. He added that financial barriers often prevent many from accessing proper eye care, which motivated his organisation to provide intervention services.
The lead optometrist for the outreach, Dr. Richard Ojeme of St Richardson Eye Consult, confirmed that refractive errors and glaucoma remain leading causes of visual impairment nationwide. He cited research showing that nearly 78 per cent of mild vision problems in Nigeria stem from these conditions.
Ojeme commended the NGO, noting that the programme aligns with the World Health Organisation’s target of eliminating avoidable blindness by 2040. As of Sunday, more than 600 people had been screened, 500 eyeglasses distributed, and medications dispensed based on clinical assessments.
“The target is 1,000 patients. So far, 600 have been reached, 500 eyeglasses given, and drugs dispensed. For patients requiring surgery, the NGO has committed to sponsoring procedures for 50 individuals,” he added.
Beneficiaries like Adebayo Adedeji expressed gratitude, calling the effort timely and impactful. He urged other well-meaning individuals and organisations to support similar humanitarian initiatives, stressing that true wealth lies in uplifting others.
The outreach concluded with a pledge by Ade Ti De Development Initiative to expand its services in December to include free screenings for hypertension, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases, broadening its community health impact.