The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has commemorated the 2025 World Glaucoma Week with a strong emphasis on the importance of regular eye checks and early diagnosis of glaucoma, a silent yet devastating disease that often progresses without symptoms.
This year’s theme, “Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World: See the Future Clearly,” highlights the urgent need for timely intervention to prevent vision loss. Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, underscored the significance of raising awareness about glaucoma, stressing that early detection is key to halting the disease’s progression.
Rising Concerns and Nationwide Efforts
According to the Nigerian Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey (2005–2007), glaucoma accounts for 16.7% of blindness cases in the country. Globally, the disease affects over 60.5 million people, with 87% of cases recorded in developing countries.
To combat the increasing prevalence of glaucoma, Dr. Salako, represented by the Director of the Port Health Division, Federal Ministry of Health & Social Welfare, Dr. Akpan Michael, revealed the ministry’s commitment to eye health through the Jigibola 2.0 initiative. Implemented under the National Eye Health Programme, this initiative aims to provide free vision screening and distribute five million pairs of reading glasses to Nigerians over the next three years, particularly targeting individuals aged 40 and above.
Risk Factors and the Call for Greater Awareness
Experts warn that people of African descent are at higher risk of earlier onset and more severe progression of glaucoma. National Coordinator for the National Eye Health Programme, Dr. Okolo Oteri, called on all stakeholders to intensify efforts in the fight against glaucoma, emphasizing the need for greater awareness, early detection, and better access to treatment.
She urged governments, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups to collaborate in educating the public on the importance of regular eye checkups, especially for those at higher risk, to prevent unnecessary vision loss.
Free Eye Screenings and Public Engagement
As part of the activities marking World Glaucoma Week, the Ministry of Health has encouraged civil servants and residents of the Federal Capital Territory to take advantage of free eye checkups and care services being offered to address the growing threat of glaucoma. This initiative aims to encourage early diagnosis and ensure accessible treatment for all.
With a collective effort from the government, medical experts, and the public, Nigeria continues its push toward a future free from preventable blindness caused by glaucoma.