By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: As part of effort towords reducing blindness and empawerment in Warri, Delta State, More than 200 people have regained their sight following a free cataract surgery initiative organized by the Africa Cataract and Eye Foundation in collaboration with Ugbajo Itsekiri USA. The outreach, which took place at the Olu of Warri Palace Field, also provided 200 free reading glasses and deworming treatment for 50 schoolchildren.
The surgeries were conducted at the Africa Cataract Vision Centre, Agbowu Medical Center, Ekurede Itsekiri, Warri.
Speaking at the event, the President of Ugbajo Itsekiri USA, Mr. Jemine Okotie, said the initiative was part of efforts to improve healthcare and empower the people of Warri Kingdom. “Over 200 individuals have benefitted from free eye tests, glasses, and cataract surgeries courtesy of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III. His vision is to ensure that his people receive quality medical care,” Okotie stated.
He further explained that the surgeries were entirely free for Itsekiri indigenes, while non-Itsekiris were only required to cover the cost of their medications. He also announced that the next phase of the initiative would focus on riverine communities in Warri South Local Government Area. “Next year, we are taking this program to riverine communities where medical services are even harder to access,” he said.
Dr. Okorodudu, one of the lead surgeons, reaffirmed his commitment to providing cataract surgeries for 100 patients, with the possibility of extending the service to more people if necessary. “We need to create more awareness about regular eye checkups and early treatment to reduce the high rate of preventable blindness in Warri Kingdom,” he advised.
Many beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the life-changing initiative. A 74-year-old woman, Victoria Omara, who received free reading glasses, said, “I was tested, given my glasses, and I am satisfied. God will bless them for this wonderful work.” Another beneficiary, a 45-year-old man who had suffered from an eye condition for decades due to self-medication, praised the organizers for restoring his sight.
A non-Itsekiri beneficiary, Mr. Peaulin Egini, an Ijaw man from Bayelsa living in Aladja, said he heard about the program in church and saw the announcement at Pessu Waterside. “The treatment given to me was excellent. They were patient, kind, and didn’t charge me a kobo. I got free eye glasses, and I truly appreciate their generosity,” he said.
Dr. Udoro Inyeng of Eva-Well Clinic, who led the medical team, noted that while over 200 patients received treatment for various eye conditions, some were reluctant to undergo surgery despite needing it. “Many were afraid of the procedure, but we had others who were eager and even pleaded to be included. We hope to increase awareness so that more people can benefit in the future,” he said.
The program is expected to continue in other parts of Delta State, ensuring that more visually impaired individuals get the help they need.