April 24, (THEWILL) – Seplat Energy, in conjunction with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), through its Social Corporate Responsibility, on Wednesday, organised a free eye check for Imo residents.
The initiative has been delivering critical eye care services, including free screenings, surgeries, and the distribution of eyeglasses, with a commitment to improving healthcare access in its host communities.
The flag-off of the ‘Eye Can See’ programme in the state, which took place at the Full Moon Hotel, Owerri, the state capital, attracted over 1,000 people who also benefited from free health checks.
Speaking at the programme, the Base Manager, Eastern Asset, Emmanuel Otokhina, stressed the company’s dedication to a holistic people and community development.
“We are operators in the regions where we work; we are partners in progress. Initiatives like ‘Eye Can See’ ensure that our communities experience the tangible benefits of our presence.”
Speaking at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Gas Development, Emeka Mgbudem, commended the initiative, adding that their partnership goes beyond energy production. “It is about human development, health, education, and capacity building.
“When I look at the array of people treated for glaucoma and cataracts today, it demonstrates that their vision is for a better future. Seplat has remained our best partner, and we are proud of the work they are doing”, he said.
He further said that at Seplat Energy, they believe that true corporate success is measured not only by financial performance but by the positive and enduring impact they create in the lives of the people and communities they serve.
“Our approach to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is rooted in the conviction that business must be a force for good, driving progress, equity, and well-being for all. Today, we celebrate one of our flagship healthcare initiatives: the “Eye Can See” programme. Since its inception in 2012, this initiative has been delivered in partnership with the
NNPC has provided free, comprehensive eye care to over 22,084 patients, performed 726 life-changing eye surgeries and distributed 12,307 prescription glasses.”
Speaking, monarch, Eze Sylvester Okwuodu of Opuoma Community in Egbema, Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area, lauded the initiative of Seplat Energy for offering free eye screening and surgery.
“We are grateful to you for always offering free medicals to us.”
In her speech, Mrs Halimat Wilson, who spoke at the occasion, recalled that they had distributed over 10,000 eyeglasses in the past years, 645 surgeries, including important cataract removals.
Those in attendance include the Commissioner for Petroleum, traditional rulers and stakeholders from the oil-producing areas of the State.
