The Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre (BioRTC), in collaboration with the Baba Malam Wali (BMW) Foundation, has provided free eye screening, reading glasses and medications to no fewer than 1,045 patients in Yobe State.

The eye care initiative, being implemented during the second phase of the SAHEL Dementia Cohort Study, was to ensure access to essential eye-care services and address vision-related health needs among the participating communities in Yobe.

Unveiling the free eye treatment on weekends in Damaturu, the BioRTC Director, Prof. Muhammad Bukar Maina disclosed: “Today’s programme also provides eligible participants with free eye examinations conducted by qualified professionals using modern diagnostic equipment, including the Topcon Maestro2 retinal imaging system.”

Beyond the eye screening, the free initiative provides eyeglasses and appropriate medications to eligible participants, helping to improve access to essential vision care.

The intervention also demonstrates how partnerships between research institutions and philanthropic organisations can deliver direct healthcare benefits to communities while advancing scientific research.

The SAHEL Dementia Cohort Study, led by Prof. Mahmoud Bukar Maina, investigates dementia, cognitive health and factors influencing brain health and healthy ageing, particularly among communities in Northern Nigeria.

As part of the second phase, participants are undergoing follow-up assessments and comprehensive health evaluations to strengthen understanding of dementia and other health conditions affecting the population.

Maina expressed appreciation to the BMW Foundation for supporting the initiative, adding that the partnership would also tackle participants’ eye-care needs while contributing to broader efforts to improve community health and wellbeing.

The programme is expected to expand access to regular eye care among the beneficiaries and generate valuable insights to support future healthcare interventions for underserved communities in Northern Nigeria.