FCTA HOLDS FREE EYE-SURGERY FOLLOW-UP AFTER WORLD SIGHT DAY SCREENING

By: Khadijat Kawunda

In the wake of World Sight Day, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Health Services and Environment Secretariat’s Public Health Department, partnered with the Tulsi Changrai Foundation to provide free eye surgery for residents identified with cataract and glaucoma conditions.

This announcement was made by the Director of, Public Health Department, Dr. Dan Gadzama, while addressing the patients selected for the free eye surgery. He thanked the foundation for agreeing to cover all surgical costs and for sending a medical team to transport patients to the referral hospital.

“This is a generous gesture that should not be taken for granted,” he said.

Gadzama noted that the initiative is expected to benefit up to 25 patients who were screened and listed for surgery. He urged those selected to be present for their operations, emphasizing that community mobilization efforts have been extensive and that the free service should not be taken for granted.

Also speaking at the event, the Head, Disease Control of the Public Health Department, Dr Ngozi Ebesike, described the collaboration as “a great gift” that will empower patients economically and socially by restoring their vision. “Sight gives your insight into everything – your profession, your economic status, your ability to interact with family and community,” she said. She also encouraged every patient to make use of this generous offer.

While Dr Goodluck Ehiemere, program manager of the Eye Care unit, Public Health Department, stated in her remarks that restoring sight is vital for productivity and quality of life. In her words, “Our eyes are the window to the body; preserving vision means preserving livelihood”.

Dr Goodluck added that the event marks the conclusion of the year‑long eye‑health programme in the FCT, with hopes that the successful surgeries will encourage broader community participation in future health initiatives.

Additionally, Solomon Fumilayo, a teacher, expressed heartfelt gratitude as one of the beneficiaries receiving free eye surgery. “This care has saved my sight and my livelihood,” she said, adding that the support has “saved a soul.”

The partnership aims to improve access to essential surgical care and to encourage greater community participation in the Territory.