International NGO advise Nigerians on regular eye check twice annually

An international non-governmental organisation, Sightsavers, has advised Nigerians to carry out regular eye check-ups at least every six months to prevent visual impairment.

The Country Director of the organisation, Dr Sunday Isiyaku, gave the advice on Thursday at a two-day media partners capacity meeting in Keffi, Nassarawa State

Sightsavers, an international non-governmental organisation that works with partners in developing countries to treat and prevent avoidable blindness, and promote equality for people with visual impairments and other disabilities.

He noted with concern the number of persons suffering from visual impairments in the country, stressing the need for the government and other stakeholders to collate data for accurate cases and medical solutions.

”It is mandatory to screen your eyes every six months to enable early diagnosis of eye problems.

”And with that, they will be able to detect any problem and commence treatment where necessary to prevent it from deteriorating,” he added.

According to Isiyaku, the organisation recently donated new health equipment to Kwara State, to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of eye care services and help improve early diagnosis of eye issues in local communities.

” In 2020 in Nigeria, there were an estimated 24 million people with vision losses and without concerted efforts, these numbers could increase.

” We are partnering with Kwara government to bolster eye care services in the region through provision of state-of-the-art tools that will support medical professionals to provide quality eye care services.

“The equipment includes diagnostic tools, surgical instruments and specialised technology to help with early detection, diagnosis and treatment of eye health issues,” he said.

Isiyaku highlighted the importance of good eye health, which he said creates a ripple effect across education, well-being, economics and health outcomes.

” Sightsavers’ vision is of a world where no one is blind from avoidable causes, and we are committed to supporting individuals with visual impairments to access the support they need,” he said.

Ms Palma Ileya, a media practitioner with Pilot Newspaper, said the media engagement had provided an avenue for journalists to interact and strategise on advocacy to improve eye health care in the country.

Speaking also, Mr Israel Shosimi, a reporter with Aso Radio and Television, said the engagement had also created awareness amongst journalists to hold policy makers, governments and other stakeholders accountable for actions that will promote health and well-being.

NAN reports that the media engagement had in attendant participants from various media organisations.

(NAN)