The Federal Government has announced plans to implement a 100% subsidised healthcare initiative targeting vulnerable and hard-to-reach communities across Nigeria, with a strong focus on improving eye health services.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, revealed the initiative during the 2025 Eyeball Summit in Abuja, themed “Shaping the Future of Eye Care in Nigeria: Strengthening Systems through Strategic Alliances.” The event was organised by the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria.
Dr. Salako stated that under the Renewed Hope Health Connect programme, the government will provide completely free medical services, including eye screenings, treatment of vision-related conditions, cataract surgeries, and distribution of prescription glasses under the JIGI BOLA 2.0 scheme.
“In a country where millions reside in underserved areas, expanding access to essential eye care is a priority,” Salako said. “This administration is committed to delivering equitable health solutions that meet the needs of our most vulnerable citizens.”
He called for integrated efforts across sectors to address the growing demand for eye care and reduce the burden of visual impairment.
“We cannot tackle the eye health challenge in isolation. I urge all stakeholders—government bodies, professional associations, NGOs, and private organisations—to form strategic alliances for a sustainable and inclusive eye care system,” he added.
Salako emphasized that partnerships are essential to increasing public awareness, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, advancing professional training, and promoting policies that support improved vision care access.
He reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to comprehensive healthcare reform, including support for eye care professionals and regulatory institutions.
On regulation, the minister urged the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board to adopt digital tools to eliminate quackery in the profession.
Also speaking at the event, the Registrar and CEO of the Board, Dr. Obinna Awiaka, praised the summit as a symbol of the board’s dedication to innovation, knowledge sharing, and collaboration in eye care delivery.
“In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, it is critical that we stay ahead through innovation and uphold the highest professional standards,” Dr. Awiaka said.
He described the summit as a platform for sharing research, exploring new trends, and forging partnerships that can revolutionise access to vision care.
Dr. Awiaka encouraged participants to use the event to engage, learn, and collaborate toward building a resilient and inclusive eye care system that meets the needs of every Nigerian.
The summit continues efforts to position eye health as a key component of national healthcare development and reduce preventable vision loss across the country.
