Federal Government Activates Over 1,400 Primary Healthcare Centres for Eye Care on World Sight Day

In a landmark initiative to improve eye health across Nigeria, the Federal Government has activated over 1,400 primary healthcare centres (PHCs) to provide essential eye care services. Announced by Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, this program coincides with the observance of World Sight Day 2026, emphasizing the theme, “The Value of Vision: Investing in People, Productivity and Nigeria’s Future.”

Speaking at the event held in Abuja, Salako, represented by the Director of E-Health Division, Mrs. Doris Afam-Aneke, underscored the government’s commitment to integrating eye care into the primary healthcare system. This integration is pivotal in ensuring that eye health services are not only accessible and affordable but also sustainable, particularly for individuals in underserved communities across the nation.

As part of this initiative, the government has trained over 3,000 healthcare workers across 16 states, empowering them with the necessary skills to deliver primary eye care at the community level. These trained professionals are crucial in enhancing early detection of eye conditions, raising awareness about eye health, and facilitating timely referrals for specialized treatment when necessary.

“A major pillar of our eye health strategy has been the integration and expansion of primary eye care services across the country,” Salako stated, highlighting the urgency and importance of this initiative in combating avoidable blindness.

The activation of these healthcare centres is expected to significantly improve the quality of eye care available to Nigerians, fostering a healthier population and ultimately contributing to national productivity. As the government continues to invest in health infrastructure, the focus on eye care represents a critical step towards achieving comprehensive health for all citizens.