Gom Mirian
At least eight children from Odan in Lagos have received free eye surgeries as part of a program conducted by the Lagos State government in collaboration with the Consulate of the People’s Republic of China and the Chinese Community and Enterprises in Nigeria.
The initiative aims to reduce blindness among residents, particularly children with cataracts.
During a visit to the beneficiaries, the Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, emphasised the government’s commitment to improving access to quality eye care services and preventing avoidable blindness.
He praised the collaborative effort with the Chinese Consulate and Government, stating, “The collaboration with the Chinese Consulate and Government targets a brighter future for children suffering from cataracts, enabling them to learn in school properly and reach their full potential.”
Dr. Ogboye highlighted that the free eye surgical expeditions are part of the Ministry’s strategy under the Blindness Prevention Program, which focuses on supporting the routine healthcare system and reaching populations who cannot afford eye care services.
A representative of the Consulate General, People’s Republic of China, Mr. Lei Yu, commended the Lagos State Government for their support and emphasized the Chinese community’s willingness to assist those in need.
He expressed that Nigeria is their home and that they are committed to helping the needy, not only through medical initiatives but also in the field of education.
Dr. Ifeyemi Adeniran, the Coordinator of the Lagos State Blindness Prevention Program, highlighted the program’s focus on reducing blindness and recognised the importance of good eyesight in individuals’ productivity and functionality in society.
Dr Adeniran assured that the State Government would continue implementing strategies to make quality eye care services accessible to all.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Tomiluyi Temitope, expressed gratitude for the initiative, citing the significant cataracts discovered in his twin boys during tests at Ijede and Epe General Hospitals.
He appreciated the timely and cost-free operation facilitated by the Lagos State Government and the Chinese Consulate.
