The Sightsavers, an international development charity organisation, has revealed that carried out 1,249 cataract surgeries in Zamfara, Sokoto and Kaduna states.
It added that it also worked with the government and other partners to screen 1.3 million children for visual impairment in North-west Nigeria.
The organisation made this known in Abuja during the commemoration of its 70th anniversary, saying its coming to Nigeria in 1953 has been to the advantage of the citizenry.
Its Country Director, Dr. Sunday Isiyaku, said he was proud of what has been achieved over the past seven decades, with so many lives being transformed by the work to improve eye health, eliminate diseases and boost disability rights.
He said that the organisation was working in countries across Africa and Asia to prevent blindness and strengthen local health systems, support equality for people with disabilities and advocate for change.
Isiyaku stated: “We also support over 1,249 cataract surgeries for children in Zamfara, Sokoto and Kaduna states.
“Millions of other people across the three states have been weaned of the use of Ivermectin for elimination of river blindness. We have also equipped around 100 service providers to support people with disabilities.”
The Communication Associate of the organisation, Ms. Joy Tarbo, specifically cited trachoma, saying that as they began operations in Nigeria 70 years ago, the number of people who were at the risk of going blind have reduced drastically from 38 million at the programme inception to just over 3.7 million.
According to her, We are committed to a future where people are no longer at risk from neglected tropical diseases, everyone has access to quality eye care, and people with disabilities can thrive in an inclusive society.
Also, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sightsavers International, Dr. Caroline Harper, expressed delight on the progress against trachoma, but highlighted the ongoing challenge of cataracts, urging extended healthcare initiatives, especially in northern communities.
Harper noted Sightsavers’ commitment to disability advocacy and equal opportunities, while thanking partners and acknowledged the dedicated team’s contributions over 70 years.