World Sight Day 2025: “Love Your Eyes – Protect the Future”
As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark World Sight Day 2025, the Chairman of the Eye Health Committee of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Afekhide Omoti, has issued a powerful call to action: prioritise eye health as a human right and national development necessity.
The Eye Health Crisis in Nigeria
Prof. Omoti revealed alarming statistics:
- 24 million Nigerians live with some form of vision loss
- 1.3 million are blind
- Over 80% of these cases are preventable or treatable
He emphasized that poor vision limits education, work opportunities, productivity, and social inclusion.
“Eye health is not a privilege or luxury; it is a human right,” Omoti stated. “It is the foundation of a child’s education, a worker’s productivity, and an elderly person’s dignity.”
Common Causes of Vision Loss
- Cataract
- Glaucoma
- Refractive errors
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Tropical diseases
These conditions affect both young and old, robbing individuals and communities of potential and prosperity.
Key Messages for Nigerians
- Get Your Eyes Tested – Early detection can prevent blindness. Free screenings are available across Nigeria this World Sight Day.
- Watch Your Children – Poor performance in school may be due to vision issues.
- Support Community Clinics – Stronger local eye care systems are essential.
- Encourage Workplace Screenings – Healthy vision improves productivity and reduces accidents.
- Advocate for Policy Change – Government must make eye care a public health priority.
Government Efforts and Public Engagement
The Federal Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its plan to integrate eye care into the Primary Health Care system and train more eye-care professionals.
To mark World Sight Day, free eye screenings and awareness campaigns are taking place in:
- Schools
- Markets
- Churches and Mosques
- Motor parks and community centres
Join the “Love Your Eyes” Campaign
Prof. Omoti encouraged all Nigerians to take simple yet impactful steps:
✅ Get an eye test
✅ Help loved ones access care
✅ Support local eye-health initiatives
“Let’s work together to eliminate avoidable blindness in Nigeria. We have the knowledge, the talent, and the power to protect our future – through our eyes,” he said.
