From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has said the House is working towards expanding eye care services in the country.
Kalu said the National Eye Centre Act (Amendment) Bill, which has scaled first reading, in the parliament, is intended to expand access to eye care services in the country.
The deputy speaker, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, disclosed this, in his goodwill message at Charity Champions Gala Night, in Abuja, at the weekend.
He expressed worry over report that an estimated 24 million Nigerians are grappling with the challenge of eye loss, stating that it was the intention of the House to provide lasting solution to the problem through legislative interventions.
According to him, the Benjamin Kalu Foundation has treated over 4,000 of his constituents with various degrees of eye problems in the last one year, as demonstration of his commitment towards assisting the underserved in the communities.
“This evening, we come together for a cause that transcends all differences– the gift of sight and showing support for eye care services to underserved communities in Nigeria. An estimated 24 million Nigerians grapple with sight loss, which demands our collective attention.
“As the Deputy Speaker, I am keenly aware of the challenges we face. The
National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey paints a stark picture,
with 4.2% of Nigerians over 40 classified as blind. This is why I championed the National Eye Centre Act (Amendment) Bill which has since passed its first reading.
“This bill aims to expand access to specialized eye care by establishing more centers across the country.
But legislative efforts alone cannot solve this crisis. We need the commitment of champions like yourselves – individuals who understand the power of community.
“It is pertinent to note that since last year, the Benjamin Kalu Foundation has treated about 4,000 constituents with eyesight problems, demonstrating the incredible impact that dedicated efforts can have on our communities. This remarkable achievement underscores the power of collective action and the difference we can make when we come together.”