By Glory Akpan
Rolan Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, has provided free eye care services and distributed eyeglasses to vulnerable residents in the FCT.
The outreach, which held on Tuesday in Gwagwalada included free eye screening, distribution of eyeglasses and eye drops, as well as basic medical checks for beneficiaries aged 38 years and above.
The intervention was carried out under the Abuja Vision Support Programme 2026 in collaboration with the Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB) and the National Optometry Association, FCT chapter.
Mr Olorunnisola Sanni, State Coordinator of the foundation, said the initiative targeted poor and vulnerable persons at the grassroots who lack access to quality eye care services.
He explained that beneficiaries were screened for blood pressure and blood sugar levels and referred for further medical attention where necessary, in addition to undergoing comprehensive eye examinations.
Sanni noted that the programme was provided free of charge, with no registration or service fees, adding that the eyeglasses distributed were supported by CMMB.
He further disclosed that the Gwagwalada outreach marks the first phase of the intervention, while the second phase is scheduled to take place on Saturday at the Chief of Garki’s Palace in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
Also speaking, Mrs Adefunke Adeniran, Programme Officer of the foundation, said the intervention covered eye tests, eye pressure checks, distribution of eye drops and eyeglasses, as well as blood sugar screening.
She stated that almost 300 persons had benefited from the initiative since its commencement, emphasising the importance of eye care, especially for ageing populations.
She also called for increased partnerships to enable the foundation to expand its services to more communities.
Mrs Eunice Asubiojo, Director of Environmental Services, who represented the Chairman of Gwagwalada Area Council, Mr Abubakar Jibrin, commended the foundation for its intervention, describing it as timely and beneficial to residents.
Some beneficiaries also expressed appreciation for the initiative.
Mr Yakubu Maiyaki, 65, said he received free eye drops and medicated glasses, while Mr Abubakar Abdullahi noted that the glasses would improve his ability to read.
Another beneficiary, Mr Afodia Polycarp, 48, thanked the foundation for supporting the community in spite of prevailing economic challenges. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
