The Kaduna State Government has commenced a free eye-screening exercise targeting about 1,000 residents as part of activities marking the 2026 World Sight Day.
The programme is being conducted in collaboration with Sightsavers and other partners, with the exercise beginning at Gonin-Gora in Chikun Local Government Area. This year’s World Sight Day theme is “Love Your Eyes.”
Speaking during the exercise, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Kaduna State University lecturer, Dr Stanley Bulus, warned residents about glaucoma, describing it as a condition that can gradually cause irreversible loss of sight if it is not detected and managed early.
He said the screening was designed to identify eye problems at an early stage and provide treatment or refer patients to appropriate health facilities where necessary.
According to Bulus, between 500 and 700 people are expected to benefit from the screening at Gonin-Gora, while other outreach activities will help the programme reach its overall target of 1,000 residents.
The medical team has been screening residents for various eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, eye infections, presbyopia and allergic conjunctivitis.
The Vice Chairman of the Kaduna State Eye Health Committee, Dr Fatima Mahmud, urged residents to have their eyes examined regularly, noting that some sight-threatening conditions can develop without pain or obvious symptoms.
She advised people not to wait until they experience serious problems before seeking medical attention, stressing that early detection can help prevent avoidable blindness.
Sightsavers Programme Officer for Eye Health, Barbara Anang Marok, said the initiative was also aimed at increasing public awareness about eye health and making basic screening services more accessible to communities.
Some beneficiaries have already received eyeglasses, medication and referrals for further treatment, including surgery where necessary.
Health officials urged residents to take advantage of regular eye checks, particularly because conditions such as glaucoma can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred.
