WORLD SIGHT DAY: Abia govt. is working to ensure that no child is left behind due to vision impairment – Mrs Otti | Read More
WORLD SIGHT DAY: Abia govt. is working to ensure that no child is left behind due to vision impairment – Mrs Otti | Read More
The First Lady of Abia state, Mrs Priscilla Otti, has assured that the present administration has prioritised prevention of blindness and vision impairment especially among children irrespective of their location.
Mrs Otti stated this on the occasion of the 2024 world sight day, held at Ibeku High school Umuahia on Thursday, themed: ‘ love your eyes, kids’.
The wife of the governor informed that the state government is partnering with the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau, to expand eye care outreach, train more healthcare workers, establish new eye clinics, and also reduce the costs associated with eye treatments.
“These efforts are all aimed at creating a system where no child is left behind due to vision impairment” she stated.
Mrs Otti further said that:
“We have conducted 100 percent free eye screenings across various locations within the state. I strongly encourage everyone to take full advantage of these opportunities whenever they are available. Regular eye check-ups are crucial for early detection and prevention of potential vision problems, ensuring that we all maintain healthy eyesight for years to come.”
Our eyes are a window to the beauty of the world, a gateway to knowledge and opportunity. They connect us to those we love and the dreams we hold dear. Yet, across Abia State, too many of our children are facing preventable vision challenges—often undiagnosed or untreated, particularly in rural areas. This is not the reality they deserve.
Today is a call to action for each of us. We have the responsibility not just to treat, but to prevent blindness and vision impairment. Our children deserve to grow, learn, and play with clear vision, unburdened by the avoidable challenges of poor eye health.
We must move swiftly and with purpose. By making eye health a priority, we can ensure that every child in Abia State, regardless of where they live, has access to proper care. This starts with regular eye screenings, accessible eye clinics, and programs that extend to every corner of our communities.
I must commend my dear husband, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, for his unwavering commitment to improving eye health in our beloved state. His leadership and dedication have laid a strong foundation for progress in this critical area.
But let us not forget—the journey towards better eye health begins with education. We are working to empower families, schools, and communities with the knowledge they need to take action. Let me reemphasize that early detection is key, and by catching issues early, we can prevent long-term damage, giving our children the opportunity to thrive.
As we mark World Sight Day 2024, I urge you all to make your children’s eye health a top priority. Take them to the clinics for regular eye check-ups, raise awareness in your communities, and advocate for improved eye care services. Investing in the vision of our children is investing in their future—and the future of Abia State.”
Highlight of the event was a solidarity walk and free eye checkup and distribution of eyeglasses.
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