October 10, (THEWILL) — The Benue State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Human Services, has deployed teams of eye care professionals to conduct screenings and distribute over 2,000 corrective lenses free of charge, as part of activities marking this year’s World Sight Day celebration.
Speaking at the event held in Makurdi on Thursday, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Paul Ogwuche, said the initiative was part of efforts to promote better eye health and ensure equitable access to eye care services. The theme for this year’s commemoration is “Love Your Eyes.”
Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr Beatrice Tsavmbu Anwe, Ogwuche encouraged citizens to adopt healthy lifestyle habits such as proper nutrition, use of UV protection, and safe screen practices.
“Support those living with vision impairment by promoting inclusion and removing stigma. Encourage your family, friends, and community to prioritise their vision,” he said.
The Commissioner urged stakeholders, including the private sector, civil society, and the media, to sustain advocacy and awareness efforts to reduce preventable blindness, especially among vulnerable groups.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration to improving healthcare delivery, noting that the state government is currently renovating and equipping health facilities across rural communities to enhance access to medical services.
In her remarks, the Director of Public Health in the Ministry, Mrs Esther Menger, said the state government, in partnership with the World Health Organisation and other development partners, is working to deliver quality healthcare to communities across the state.
She urged residents to take advantage of the free eye screening and treatment being offered during the celebration.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Eye Health Committee, Dr Kator Chaha, described the eyes as “the window of the body”, stressing the importance of regular eye checks.
He noted that for the first time in over two decades, Benue State is celebrating World Sight Day in a significant way under the current administration, which has provided an enabling environment for the initiative.
Dr Chaha also charged health workers participating in the exercise to demonstrate empathy and professionalism while attending to patients.
