By Henry Uche
A corps member with Igando/Ikotun Local Government Development Area (LGDA), Lagos, Umoh Veronica, has delivered free eye service to over 400 citizens who could not afford medical bills to take care of their eyes.
The Akwa Ibom State-born optometrist said she chose to meet the need of the citizens: “Though I use reflective glasses, that was not the driving force. In school, I found that most people have challenges basically with their eyes. So I decided to focus more on becoming an optometrist.
“I am not doing this for anybody or the government to reward me. I am motivated to do it. We were designed to make impact wherever we go. With the support of Legal Anchorage, we are able to do this and offer professional advice to beneficiaries.
“Government should as a matter of responsibility make primary health care affordable, accessible and qualitative. With this number here, it is clear that people are really suffering from different ailments, and someone needs to come to their aid.”
Chairman, Task Force on All Revenue, of Igando/Ikotun LGDA, Mr. Idowu Olajide, was a beneficiary of the screening: “We used to see similar projects like this in this LGDA from corps members. But this is exceptional because she offered more than eyes screening to over 400 people.
“We believe the government can support such gestures and do more on healthcare because we can’t do anything under bad health conditions.
“We all must heed to the instructions from the doctor and avoid self medications. We must seek professionals in any health challenge we encounter. This LGDA is aware of this project and shall encourage more of this kind.”