Edo, Tantita Group, Africa Cataract Eye Foundation Collaborate for Free Eye Surgery

The Edo State Government, Tantita and Jovason Group, and Africa Cataract and Eye Foundation are joining forces to provide free cataract surgeries in Benin, the capital of Edo State. The collaborative effort is currently underway at the Edo Specialist Hospital in Benin City and a health facility in Ologbo community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the state.

Dr. Mejuya Okorodudu, the founder of Africa Cataract and Eye Foundation and a renowned ophthalmologist, revealed that cataract can affect individuals of all ages, including children. Early treatment is crucial for children as prolonged cataract can hinder the development of the visual center of the brain, potentially causing permanent visual impairment.

Okorodudu urged parents not to ignore signs of poor vision in their children due to financial constraints, emphasizing that cataract blindness is reversible. During the initial phase of the intervention in Ologbo, 138 cataract surgeries were performed, with each surgery and medication costing approximately N450,000. Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, the Edo State Commissioner for Health, highlighted the state government's commitment to providing accessible healthcare for disadvantaged residents, aligning with the administration's promise to cater to the poorest and most vulnerable members of society.

Additionally, Dr. Anthonia Njoku, the Managing Director of Edo Specialist Hospital, commended the partners for the intervention, stating that it aligns with Governor Monday Okpebholo's vision of accessible healthcare for the residents of Edo State. One of the beneficiaries of the free cataract surgery program is seven-year-old Falilah Lukman, among the 200 beneficiaries so far.

Okorodudu emphasized the importance of seeking immediate medical attention for vision problems in children, using Falilah's case as an example.