NNPC Foundation Conducts 1,000 Free Eye Surgeries in Bayelsa 

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

The  Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Foundation, Mrs Emmanuella Arukwe has revealed that cataract remains one of the leading causes of blindness globally and accounts for nearly 50 per cent of blindness cases in Nigeria, quoting to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

These challenges, she said, are not just a health issue, but a social and economic crisis, as vision loss impacts productivity, independence, and overall quality of life.

Speaking at the South-south free cataract screening and extraction surgeries at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, she told the 1000 beneficiaries to take advantage of the exercise and regain their eyesight.

Represented by the Manager, Health Services, Mr. Jude Ayalogu, she stated that the foundation, a non-profit making business of the NNPC, had earlier commenced screening for beneficiaries of the free cataract extraction since April 1, 2025.

She said the foundation was embarking on the cataract screening and extraction programme across the six (6) geopolitical zones of Nigeria, to arrest prevalent vision impairment and blindness across the country caused by Cataract, and overall to improve and strengthen the health of the communities.

She said: “In rural and underserved areas, limited access to quality eye care exacerbates this challenge and many individuals live with avoidable blindness because they cannot afford or access the care they need. 

“At NNPC Foundation, we recognise that sight is more than just a sense; it is a fundamental pillar of human dignity and opportunity. This understanding forms the foundation of our outreach programme.

“Through this initiative, we aim to provide free cataract screenings, surgeries, and public education about eye health. It is our expectation that this effort will help to restore sight to up to 6,000 individuals in the country, 1,000 in each of the 6 geopolitical zones.” 

She emphasised that the NNPC Foundation will continue to provide support for accessible, affordable and sustainable healthcare for Nigerians across the geopolitical zones. 

Earlier, while flagging off the programme, the Bayelsa First Lady, Mrs. Gloria Diri, commended NNPC for its commitment to improve health care in Nigeria, adding that cataract is a significant public health challenge in Nigeria.

She urged the people of Bayelsa to take advantage of the programme and help to spread the news to communities beyond the state capital

The Medical Director, FMC, Dr. James Omietimi, also appreciated the NNPC Foundation for taking up the challenge to tackle the menace and to restore vision and hope for many in this part of the world.