NNPC Foundation Restores Sight to Hundreds in Abia as Free Cataract Surgeries Hold Across Nigeria | WATCH VIDEO

https://youtu.be/fFIwROIvw0k

The Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Emmanuella Arukwe, has applauded the massive turnout and support for the ongoing free cataract extraction project in Abia State, describing it as a landmark health intervention aimed at restoring vision and dignity to thousands of Nigerians.

[caption id="attachment_188037" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Emmanuella Arukwe speaking to the media[/caption]

The initiative, a collaborative effort between NNPC Limited and NNPC Foundation, is currently taking place simultaneously across the six geopolitical zones of the country and began in January 2025. Speaking during a media interaction in Umuahia, Arukwe noted that the project was inspired by the urgent need to address cataract-related blindness in Nigeria, which she said accounts for 43% of preventable blindness cases.

"Cataract is not only a health issue but a developmental impediment. A person who cannot see becomes a burden to society. Once it is removed, the individual regains not only their sight but their ability to contribute meaningfully to national development," Arukwe said.

She expressed delight at the effective coordination in Abia State, praising the mobilization of beneficiaries from all Local Government Areas and the state-of-the-art hospitals selected for the exercise. "We are very satisfied with the commitment we have seen from Governor Alex Otti and his team. The quality of facilities ( Abia State Specialist Hospital & Diagnostic Centre ) and the scale of mobilization are commendable. Over 2,000 people have been screened already," she said.

Responding to questions about the capacity to handle the high number of cases, Arukwe stated that no eligible patient would be turned away. "We already have 1,300 people shortlisted, and all of them will be attended to," she assured.

Beneficiaries Share Emotional Testimonies

Several beneficiaries of the free surgery programme shared their emotional stories, expressing gratitude to NNPC Foundation, Governor Alex Otti, and the medical teams for giving them a new lease on life.

Mrs. Emeka, a resident of Ihie Ndume in Umuahia, shared how she had been living with blindness for over two years. "I couldn't see at all. I came here on the 2nd, was screened, and was approved for surgery. I didn't pay a kobo. Now I can see clearly. Everywhere is shining. I am so happy," she said with tears of joy.

Emaj, from Old Umuahia, also spoke about his experience. "I had cataract in my right eye and couldn't see well for two years. I heard the announcement on the radio and came for screening on March 31st. I was operated on the 7th of April by Dr. Egwu. Today, I can see perfectly. I thank God."

Mr. Peter, an 87-year-old man, narrated how he lost vision in his left eye earlier in 2025. "I heard about the NNPC project in church. I came, got tested, and was booked for surgery on April 7th. I arrived by 7 a.m., and the surgery was successful. This is my first time benefiting from such a programme. May God bless everyone involved."

This intervention by NNPC Foundation aligns with its broader commitment to healthcare, social investment, and sustainable development. As the surgeries continue, hope has been restored to countless families in Abia and across Nigeria.

[caption id="attachment_188030" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Umuahia North LGA Mayor - Honorable Smart Iheoma[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_188029" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Abia State Government Functionaries[/caption]