Committed to fighting blindness and restore sight to vulnerable individuals across Nigeria, the Rotary Club of Lagos Palm Grove Estate has strengthened its partnership with the Indo Eye Care Foundation (IECF).

The partnership pledged to carry out over 800 cataract surgeries for residents in Lagos State and beyond, building on the successful collaboration that has already impacted thousands of lives.

This was revealed during a visit by Rotary International Past President Mark Maloney and his spouse Gay Maloney, who were warmly welcomed by the Rotary Club of Lagos Palm Grove Estate.

Representative of the Indo Eye Care Foundation, Rotarian Tarun Sanghvi, spoke passionately about the foundation’s mission.

He shared that, through this partnership, over 25,000 cataract surgeries have been performed, and 100,000 pairs of glasses distributed to those in need.

“The Indo Eye Care Centre is a thriving example of what can be achieved through the power of community partnerships. This is only possible because of the steadfast support from Lagos State’s Ministry of Health, Rotary International, and Rotary Districts.

“In a world where we often focus on what we lack, today we gather to celebrate what we can give and the difference it makes,” Sanghvi said.

Reflecting on the foundation’s journey, Sanghvi recalled the efforts of the late Mr. Patel, who played a pivotal role in the IECF’s success.

“When the IECF building was completed in 2018, Mr. Patel’s first action was to meet all stakeholders, from donors to contractors to volunteers. His recognition of their efforts reinforced the importance of leadership through appreciation,” he added.

The event also featured the attendance of key Rotary leaders, including Rotary International Trustee Past District Governor, Ijeoma Okoro and her spouse Kingsley; Past Rotary International Vice President, Yinka Babalola; District Governors, Dr. Oluwole Kukoyi (District 9111), Femi Adenekan (District 9112), and Sarafa Olowolagba (District 9126). Their presence underscored the strong collaboration between the club, the foundation, and Rotary Districts.

More so, the President of the Rotary Club of Lagos Palm Grove Estate, Omoye Evbota, highlighted the enduring relationship with the Indo Eye Care Foundation.

“Our 17-year partnership exemplifies the true spirit of Rotary, built on trust and mutual respect. This collaboration continues to foster a deep sense of hope and compassion, and it is our collective effort that creates real, transformative change in our communities.”

Evbota also acknowledged the visit of PRIP Mark Maloney, emphasising that his leadership and dedication to Rotary’s mission serve as an inspiration to all.

“We are proud of our partnership and the profound impact it has made. With the support of our District Governors and all Rotary members, we will continue to uphold our values of service, compassion, and fellowship.”

PRIP Mark Maloney expressed his admiration for the Indo Eye Care Foundation’s unwavering commitment to restoring sight.

He commended Mrs. Prisha Mundra for sponsoring 80 cataract surgeries as part of the Mission for Vision 2025 initiative. “It is a privilege to see Rotary in action. The work being done here is an example of Rotary’s core mission to serve humanity. I look forward to seeing more surgeries performed annually,” Maloney stated.

Also, Rotary International Trustee Past District Governor Ijeoma Okoro praised the partnership between the Rotary Club of Lagos Palm Grove Estate and the Indo Eye Care Foundation.

“The collaboration between Rotarians and the Indian community is truly inspiring. I’m excited to see more individuals and organizations supporting this cause,” she said.

District Governors from across the regions also weighed in on the partnership’s success.

Sarafa Olowolagba of District 9126 commended the Rotary Club for providing essential support to the community, while Femi Adenekan of District 9112 echoed his sentiments, emphasising that the project had become an integral part of the community.

Dr. Oluwole Kukoyi of District 9111 confirmed that the foundation is aligning perfectly with Rotary’s mission of humanitarian service and announced that his district will conduct 1,000 additional cataract surgeries in partnership with the foundation.