Nigeria eye health and vision care initiatives

Nigerian states and health officials are addressing widespread vision impairment through localized service campaigns and calls for national investment.

In Delta and Abia states, initiatives have been launched to improve eye health. In observance of World Sight Day, Delta State has trained 232 Primary Health Care workers across 75 centers to provide basic eye-care and early identification of visual impairments. This effort, part of the Jigibola 2.0 Programme, includes upgraded facilities at General Hospital, Ibusa, and support from the Clinton Health Access Initiative, which has provided free reading glasses. Additionally, the Vision Care for Development Foundation has supported over 500 free cataract surgeries since April 2026.

In Abia State, the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau has initiated free eye screenings for commercial drivers to improve road safety. Collaborating with the Ministry of Transport and the Federal Road Safety Corps, the bureau has scheduled a major screening exercise for October 15 at the Professor Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal to highlight the link between clear vision and safe driving.

On a national level, health officials are highlighting the economic impact of vision loss, noting that approximately 24.2 million citizens suffer from vision impairment. During a roundtable in Abuja, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, emphasized that vision loss reduces labor capacity and economic output. Advocates, including Sightsavers, have suggested that increased investment in eye care could generate $2.45 billion in economic benefits for Nigeria by 2030.