14,000 Niger residents blind from cataracts, 5,000 new cases recorded annually

In Niger State, approximately 14,000 individuals are currently blind due to cataracts, with an additional 5,000 new cases added each year, according to the Niger State Ministry of Health. Dr. Halima Isah Umar, the Chairman of the Niger State Eye Care Programme and Head of the Eye Centre, General Hospital in Minna, made this revelation during a press briefing to commemorate the 2026 World Sight Day on October 8.

Cataract is the leading cause of blindness in the state, contributing to about 50 to 60 percent of blindness cases. The 14,000 figure refers to individuals who are already blind from cataracts but have yet to receive treatment, while the annual increase is primarily due to aging.

Umar highlighted several barriers preventing patients from receiving treatment, including lack of awareness, high costs of surgery, and limited access to eye-care services. The current intervention focuses on providing free treatment to indigent patients, with an expected beneficiary range of 30 to 50 people. A larger project planned by the state aims to serve approximately 1,000 beneficiaries.

Patients with non-surgical conditions like infections, glaucoma, and allergies will receive free treatment, including reading glasses, while those requiring specialized care will be referred.

Cataract, Umar noted, is primarily age-related and cannot be entirely prevented. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels can help slow its progression. She cautioned residents against relying on unproven eye drops, as they could delay patients from seeking appropriate treatment.

The state's eye health program is collaborating with several organizations, including the Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria, National Orientation Agency, and the Nigerian Optometric Association, to enhance awareness and services related to eye care.

During the World Sight Day activities, 30 free cataract surgeries were offered, along with comprehensive vision screenings, treatment for non-surgical eye ailments, 200 free reading glasses, and eye-care counseling. The general screening and treatment exercise took place at the Eye Centre, General Hospital, Minna, from 9 am to 2 pm.

Health Commissioner Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana urged residents not to wait until vision loss becomes severe before seeking medical attention, emphasizing that the state's eye health program is working with various partners to strengthen eye-care awareness and services.