Mrs. Maudline Nwifuru, First Lady of Ebonyi State, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art eye centre at David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu. As the founder of Better Health for Rural Women, Children, and Displaced Persons (BERWO), she emphasized the centre’s role in providing quality eye care and free treatments.
Speaking at the event, she reaffirmed her commitment to improving healthcare, stating that the initiative aims to support those in need. The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jesse Uneke, highlighted the centre’s focus on research and treatment of major eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.
The World Health Organization estimates that over one billion people globally suffer from preventable or unaddressed vision impairment. In Nigeria, about 24 million people experience sight loss, with 4.2% of those over 40 classified as blind.
Dr. Adebayo Shittu, the university’s Pro-Chancellor and former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, commended the initiative, expressing confidence in the institution’s growth as a medical hub. He also praised President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing education and urged public support for telecom providers amid recent tariff adjustments.
With this development, Ebonyi State strengthens its healthcare system, advancing medical research and accessibility to quality eye care.
