Hundreds of residents in Benin and its environs have benefited from this year’s NEPL/Seplat Energy healthcare initiative, “Eye Can See,” which comes at zero cost for patients.

The three-day free eye care services held at the Oba of Benin’s Palace in Benin witnessed a large turnout of patients. Since its inception, the “Eye Can See” programme has recorded 110,634 eye treatments, the distribution of 55,382 reading glasses, and the successful completion of 4,752 cataract surgeries.

Director of External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, said that the initiative has been sustained by the continued cooperation of the joint venture partners.

Represented by the Senior Manager, Corporate Social Investment and Social Performance, Esther Icha, said every part of the programme is free of charge, including those with hypertension or diabetes.

The free eye care services included consultations, provision of reading glasses, cataract surgeries and health education on conditions such as glaucoma, hypertension, and diabetes to thousands of beneficiaries in the JV’s host communities.

The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, represented by the Director, Medical Services, Dr Edward Aisowieren, acknowledged the concrete impact of the initiative.

He noted that in keeping to its name, the “Eye Can See” initiative is, indeed, positively transforming lives. Oshiomhole said that more than half of the ailments that lead to permanent loss of sight are treatable and thanked Seplat Energy and its partners for coming to the rescue.

The Obkhavbaye of Benin, Chief Ralphael Oronsaye, who represented the Oba of Benin, commended the company and urged the people to always take advantage of good initiatives by worthy corporate citizens.

Dennis Laure, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, thanked the company for helping them overcome eye-health challenges, which has been negatively impacting their lifestyles and means of livelihoods.