FG Pledges Commitment To Strengthening Eye Care Services
Adaora Ezenwaka
The Federal Government if Nigeria, has pledged renewed commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s eye care system through strategic alliances, community-based interventions, and increased access to quality services, especially for underserved populations.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, who gave the assurance while delivering a keynote address at the 2025 Eyeball Summit, hosted by the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria, in Abuja, said rising visual impairments and growing demand for eye care require integrated, collaborative solutions saying that the future of eye care lies in our collective efforts.
Speaking on the theme, “Shaping the Future of Eye Care in Nigeria: Strengthening Systems Through Strategic Alliances,” Dr Salako described vision as a fundamental part of human dignity and empowerment.
He urged stakeholders including professional bodies, NGOs, and private entities to form strong partnerships that will bridge gaps in infrastructure, workforce, and service delivery.
The Minister, unveiled what he called JIGI BOLA 2.0, a government-backed, fully subsidised programme to provide free eye screenings, glasses, cataract surgeries, and treatment for eye-related conditions in rural communities under the Renewed Hope Health Connect initiative.
Salako, also revealed government efforts to integrate eye care into primary healthcare through the training of nurses and community health workers, and reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to improving healthcare across all sectors.
The summit brought together experts and policymakers determined to build a resilient eye health system that ensures that every Nigerian is taken care of.
