With most vision loss in Nigeria preventable, the Federal Government says eye care is now a development priority.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ending avoidable blindness and expanding inclusive eye health services nationwide. The pledge was made in Abuja as the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, launched SightQuest Nigeria, a 10-year eye health programme by CBM International.
Salako revealed that 84% of blindness cases in Nigeria are preventable or treatable, with cataract, glaucoma and refractive errors topping the list. Nigeria’s blindness prevalence currently stands at 0.78%, a figure the government says must come down through better access, awareness and early treatment.
The SightQuest programme will begin in five states and expand to 14 states, supporting Nigeria’s push for universal health coverage. The minister warned that poor access to eye care pushes many people toward unsafe alternatives, often worsening their condition and reducing productivity.
He stressed that vision loss is not just a health issue but an economic one, costing the global economy about $411 billion annually, while every $1 invested in eye care returns $28.
Salako highlighted ongoing initiatives such as JigiBola 2.0, which aims to distribute five million free reading glasses in 15 states, and plans to deliver 25,000 free cataract surgeries by 2027.
He praised CBM International and partners for supporting infrastructure, surgeries, spectacles and training, adding that Nigeria’s eye health reforms align with the Renewed Hope Agenda and global targets for 2030.
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