The Lagos State Ministry of Health has urged residents to prioritise early glaucoma screening and detection to prevent avoidable blindness.

The call was made by health officials, eye care professionals and civil servants during a “Walk for Sight” held at the State Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja. The event formed part of activities marking the World Glaucoma Week 2026 and aimed to sensitise residents on the dangers of glaucoma and the importance of routine eye examinations.

Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dayo Lajide, described glaucoma as a “silent killer of sight” that often progresses without obvious symptoms, leaving many people unaware until permanent damage has occurred. She noted that although glaucoma does not cause death, vision loss can severely affect psychological well-being and productivity.

Lajide urged residents, particularly those with a family history of glaucoma or blindness, to adopt the habit of regular eye checks. She added that members of the public could access screening and treatment services at general hospitals and selected primary health centres across the state.

Chairperson of the Nigerian Optometric Association Lagos State Chapter, Gloria Okoekhian-Ogulu, also warned that glaucoma is a “silent thief of sight” because it develops gradually without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. She explained that people of African descent are genetically more predisposed to the condition, making awareness campaigns and routine eye examinations particularly important.

Okoekhian-Ogulu added that although glaucoma itself may not always be preventable, blindness caused by the disease can be avoided through early detection, proper treatment and adherence to medical advice.

She noted that World Glaucoma Week is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness, promoting early diagnosis and encouraging individuals to take proactive steps to protect their vision.

Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Olayinka Ojo, commended the Ministry of Health for organising the campaign. Ojo described glaucoma as a dangerous condition that often progresses unnoticed until significant vision damage occurs. She encouraged public servants to take advantage of government-supported eye screening programmes, adopt healthy lifestyles and share information about the initiative with colleagues and family members.

Director of Medical Administration, Training and Programmes at the Ministry of Health, MazeedatErinosho, explained that glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness globally after cataract.

She added that the risk of developing glaucoma increases significantly after the age of 40 and emphasised the need for stronger health-seeking behaviour, particularly routine eye examinations.

Erinosho disclosed that as part of activities marking World Glaucoma Week, the ministry would conduct glaucoma screening and awareness outreach at the Sunday Market in Ogba Market to bring eye care services closer to grassroots communities.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding blindness prevention programmes and ensuring residents have access to early diagnosis and treatment services.