Sightsavers to tackle visual impairment in four northern states

Sightsavers International has launched the ‘SeeClear Nigeria’ initiative, a three-year programme aimed at providing accessible and affordable eye care services to marginalised communities in Plateau, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kaduna states. 

Joy Shuaibu, Sightsavers Nigeria country director, highlighted the organisation’s 70-year commitment to preventing avoidable visual impairment in Nigeria, particularly among children.

The initiative, which is billed to run from 2025 to 2027, will focus on ensuring essential eye care services reach vulnerable people, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), women, and children.

Key components include the distribution of spectacles, provision of children’s eyeglasses, and surgical interventions for those who need them.

The select states will serve as model regions, with the programme’s impact assessed periodically to determine potential expansion.

Shuaibu commended the state governments for their support.

Nicholas Bamlong, Plateau state commissioner for health; and Abdulkadir Lawal Rafindadi, representing the north-west eye health care committee; praised Sightsavers for the initiative and expressed hopes of sustainability.

The ‘SeeClear Nigeria’ programme aims to empower individuals to contribute to their families and society.