The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its determination to eliminate avoidable blindness and expand access to affordable, inclusive, and quality eye care across the state.
Speaking during an event held at Alesinloye Market, Ibadan, to mark World Sight Day 2025, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, represented by Dr. Fola Oni, said the government remains resolute in making eye care a key component of public health planning.
The global event, themed “Love Your Eyes: Access to Eye Care for All,” brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, and the medical community to raise awareness about vision health and the prevention of blindness.
“Eye health is often overlooked in public health conversations, yet it is essential for education, economic productivity, and overall well-being. In Oyo State, improving access to eye care is not just a health goal; it is a moral imperative,” Dr. Ajetunmobi said.
She highlighted key initiatives already underway, including the establishment of the Oyo State Eye Health Committee earlier this year. The committee is responsible for developing coordinated strategies, guiding policy implementation, and ensuring the sustainable delivery of eye care services across health facilities.
Ajetunmobi also announced upcoming community-based outreach programmes in collaboration with professional associations, NGOs, and development agencies to take eye care to underserved communities.
“Our goal is to build a state where no child, artisan, farmer, or elderly citizen is left behind in accessing quality eye care. We are committed to strengthening eye care services, integrating them into primary healthcare, and ensuring no one goes blind due to preventable causes,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, represented by Dr. Fasasi, encouraged residents to prioritise regular eye checkups and preventive care, noting that conditions like hypertension and diabetes can silently affect vision.
“The eye is one of the most vital organs of the body. Unfortunately, many people don’t seek help until their sight is already impaired,” he said.
He assured that qualified ophthalmologists and optometrists are available across the state, including at UCH Ibadan and LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, to provide specialised eye care services.
In his remarks, Dr. Sarimiye, Secretary of the National Association of Ophthalmologists, representing the Chief Medical Director of UCH, commended Oyo State’s leadership and longstanding collaboration with partners such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, and development organisations.
He described World Sight Day as an important opportunity to raise awareness about the dangers of preventable blindness and the importance of early intervention.
A representative of the Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Amy Patrick from the National Eye Health Committee, praised Oyo’s proactive approach, noting that it aligns with national strategies aimed at decentralising and strengthening state-led eye health systems.
Similarly, Dr. Susan Adepoju lauded the state’s commitment to improving eye health infrastructure and services, saying the newly inaugurated committee would help standardise quality eye care delivery.
Delivering a goodwill message, Lion Tina, who represented the Lions District Governor, Lion Adelaja Ademuyiwa Adeleye, restated the organisation’s commitment to advancing humanitarian causes, especially in the area of vision restoration.
“The Lions Club remains a global force in eye care. We are honoured to partner with Oyo State and UCH to bring sight-saving solutions to our people,” she said.
A public enlightenment session led by Dr. Oyebode Abiola of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) educated participants on the relationship between nutrition, hygiene, and long-term eye health.
The event also featured free eye screening, medical consultations, and distribution of corrective glasses, underscoring the state’s commitment to inclusive healthcare delivery.
