Rolan Foundation has stepped up efforts to improve access to eye care services in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), targeting at least 1,000 residents through a free medical outreach.

Olorunisola Azeez, FCT coordinator of the foundation, said the outreach, which was held on Saturday, included free eye screenings, distribution of eyeglasses and eye drops, as well as basic medical checks for beneficiaries aged 38 years and above.

The initiative was implemented under the Abuja Vision Support Programme 2026 in collaboration with the Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB) and the FCT chapter of the Nigerian Optometric Association.

Mr Azeez explained that the intervention was designed to address limited access to quality eye care, especially among underserved and grassroots communities.

He stressed that poor vision significantly affects productivity and quality of life, highlighting the need for professional eye care services.

“The outreach provides free eye screenings, scans, medications and prescription eyeglasses to beneficiaries who would otherwise be unable to afford such services,” he said.

He added that the programme, which began earlier in the week at the Gwagwalada Area Council Secretariat, had moved to the Chief’s Palace in Garki under the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) to improve accessibility for community members.

“Although the outreach was held in Garki, beneficiaries attended from several area councils across the FCT.

“Common eye conditions observed included itching, pain, dryness, and difficulty reading close objects, with appropriate medications and corrective lenses provided where necessary”.

Mr Azeez disclosed that about 10 eye specialists and medical doctors supported the outreach to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.

He emphasised that all services, including eyeglasses and medications, were offered free of charge.

“Basic health checks, including blood pressure and blood sugar tests, were also conducted as part of a comprehensive care package.

“The items distributed were imported and certified by relevant regulatory bodies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the Federal Ministry of Health”.

He cautioned against self-medication, warning that improper use of drugs could worsen eye conditions and cause permanent damage.

He also called for more partnerships and funding to enable the foundation to expand its interventions across health, environment, water, education, and climate change sectors.

Also speaking, Chinedu Njezi, chairman of the FCT Chapter of the Nigerian Optometric Association, cautioned Nigerians against using unverified herbal remedies for eye conditions.

Mr Njezi, speaking on the sidelines of the outreach to mark World Optometry Week, said such practices could result in permanent vision loss.

He noted that many Nigerians, even in urban areas with access to healthcare, often neglect routine eye examinations.

Outreach programmes, he added, provide an opportunity to educate the public about the importance of regular eye checks and early detection of vision problems.

Mr Njezi stressed that many claims about herbal or unverified treatments circulating on social media were not scientifically proven and could worsen existing conditions.

He urged the public to seek professional medical guidance and avoid substances not prescribed by qualified eye care specialists, emphasising preventive care and annual eye examinations.

Earlier, the Sa’peyi of Garki, Usman Nga-Kupi, commended the foundation for bringing the outreach to the community.

He described the intervention as timely and impactful, noting that many people in need of medical assistance often lack the means to access such services.

Mr Nga-Kupi called on other organisations, both within and outside Nigeria, to support similar humanitarian initiatives to improve healthcare, education, and community development.

He also thanked members of the media for their role in amplifying the programme’s impact. 

(NAN)