Sightsaver, an international development charity, has disclosed that it worked with the governments and other partners to screen 1.3 million children for visual impairment and treated 590 million people for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Northwest Nigeria, over a period of 70 years.

The group, which is working in countries across Africa and Asia to prevent blindness and strengthen local health systems, support equality for people with disabilities, and advocate for change, also supporting over 1,249 cataract surgeries for children in Zamfara, Sokoto and Kaduna States.

Its Communication Associate, Joy Tarbo, in a statement, in Abuja, to commemorate its 70th anniversary in Nigeria, noted as part of the achievements of the global charity in the last seven decades, specifically cited trachoma and the number of people who were at risk of going blind.

According to Tarbo, the group has reduced the incidents drastically from 38 million at its inception to just over 3.7 million, adding that millions of other people across three states of Kaduna, Sokoto and Zamfara have been weaned of the use of Ivermectin for the elimination of river blindness.

Country Director, Dr. Sunday Isiyaku, said: “We have also equipped around 100 service providers to support people with disabilities, in the process so many lives have been transformed through eye health programmes and eliminating diseases, and boost disability rights.”

“So much has already been achieved in all areas. But today is also about looking forward and galvanising momentum for what still needs to be done. We are committed to a future where people are no longer at risk from neglected tropical diseases; everyone has access to quality eye care,” he added.

Chief Executive Officer of Sightsavers, Dr. Caroline Harper, observed that celebrating the progress made against trachoma was good, calling for extended healthcare initiatives, especially in northern communities and other parts of the country through disability advocacy and equal opportunities.

“Following these, there will be a celebration event, and Sightsavers will be joined by staff, partners, donors and government officials. Key successes from the past seven decades will be shared and awards given for key achievements, as well as commitments set for the future.”