Health
Experts Make Strong Case for Periodic Eye Check-up
…Recommend Naturesfield’s Eyecap For Eye Infections
Medical experts have urged Nigerians to embrace the culture of periodic eye check-up as means to curb the growing cases of eye related infections, diseases and defects.
Similarly, the experts also warned against patronising quacks while treating eye infections to avert the risk of potential blindness.
Speaking during a Twitter Live interview to promote eye-care in Nigeria, Dr. Ogunbekun Oladapo, an Ophthalmologist, resident at Eye Foundation Hospital in Lagos, said that larger population of Nigerians who resort to self-medications lack awareness and live in poverty.
However, he posits that the temptation of going through the none-medical route must be resisted vehemently.
“It is better to seek the help of a certified ophthalmic practitioner,” Dr. Oladapo, strongly recommended.
He argued that unauthorised eye-care medication is harmful to the eye and can induce blindness.
“Some people are fond of using urine, breastmilk, kafra, sea or ocean water, brake oil, etc., on their eyes which can even melt the eye.”
“Most eye-related diseases leading to blindness are treatable or preventable. The challenge lies in creating more awareness and changing the existing wrong perception.
“The knowledge and awareness, spur early detection of eye infections and intervention can be effective when done at an early age”.
On his part, Dr. Ronald Ikpe, also a Medical practitioner, said that eye-care in Nigeria is not receiving the deserved attention as many people do not think eye check-ups are important.
Dr. Ikpe said eye problems can quickly deteriorate if not checked and managed early because eyes are critical just like every other organ of the body.
“They are also subject to stress, infections, and injuries of all sorts. So we need more awareness on eye health out there both offline and online.”
According to available data, it is estimated that 1.13 million individuals aged 40 years are currently blind in Nigeria. While 2.7 million adults aged 40 years are estimated to have a moderate visual impairment.
With these overwhelming statistics, the awareness for eye health is not limited to regular checks, Experts say it also includes exhibiting certain personal habits which are instrumental to caring for one’s eyes.
“There are lots of ways to take care of one’s eyes. I always like to start by saying one needs to know his or her family history, Dr. Ikpe said.
In addition, he advised that smoking should be avoided.
“eat a balanced diet, eat lots of fruits. If you use a laptop/ desktop very often, make sure you have an anti-glare or make sure that you are not too close to the screen.”
Does Exposure On Computer Screen Affect The Eye?
In the Digital Age, there is an emerging eye infection called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). These days people are constantly glued to the screens and this phenomenon contributes to the growing cases of eye-related issues.
Computer Vision Syndrome is 74 percent prevalent in Nigeria and 400,000 adults are severely visually impaired. While 4.25 million adults aged 40 years in Nigeria are visually impaired or blind.
“The Computer Vision Syndrome is real though not a permanent condition, Dr. Ikpe said. “We live in a digital world now and our mobile phones and laptops are the new workstations. These activities keep a lot of us glued to our screens daily.”
He advised that the brightness of the phone screen should be dimmed. “The light should not be very bright. If you have any form of eye injury or concern, see your healthcare provider immediately, ” he said.
Dr. Ikpe debunked the misconception that there is no need for a Nigerian to conduct eye check-ups at least once a year.
With such belief that Nigerians are immune to eye disease, Dr. Ikpe said that such argument does not hold any water.
He emphasized that eye checks yearly are significant as no more is immune to eye infections, regardless of tribe, race, or origin
“We should cultivate the habit of having regular eye check-ups. It is important so that if there are any issues, they can be addressed immediately.”
Further, Dr. Ikpe decried the limited number of medical practitioners in the country especially Optometrists who specialize in handling cases of eye infections.
He said there is a dearth of healthcare workers in Nigeria and optometrists are not left behind.
“I don’t know the current statistics but we don’t have enough”, he said. “I saw data somewhere showing that Nigeria has about 4000 optometrists in 2018.”
Eyecap As A Solution To Eye Infections
Abayomi Onasanya, a Pharmacist and Marketing Manager at NaturesField recommend Eyecap as the most effective eye care product for treating Cataracts or Glaucoma, uncorrected refractive error, age-related macula diseases, Diabetic retina disease, etc.
He explains that the market acceptability and numerous testimonies from patients, ophthalmologists, optometrists in terms of efficacy are overwhelming.
With the present low awareness level on eye health, Natures Field is ensuring benefits are shared to reach a wide range of health care professionals and consumers for an increased quality of health care.
He said Eyecap constitutes ingredients such as Glutathione, Eye Bright, which can be used in the prevention and management of patients with Glaucoma, cataracts.
The Glutathione in Eyecap helps in cell rejuvenation of the eye lens and retina. It is directly utilized by the lens of the eye to offset the potential free radical damage of blue rays, sunlight rays. It also protects the eye against chemical and oxidative stress.
“Although we have over 100 products to improve healthy living from pre-conception to old age. However, Eyecap is unique because it is 1 tablet daily, ensuring compliance on the part of the patient. Again, it is cost-effective, even though it is manufactured in the USA.”
Further, he explains that eye allergies, redness, inflammation are curable with Eyecap.
“Eye Redness can be caused by uveitis, conjunctivitis, dry eyes, etc. Eye allergies develop when “something” (called an allergen) comes in contact with antibodies attached to the mast cells in your eyes.”
He said the cells respond by releasing histamine and other substances that cause tiny blood vessels to leak and the eyes to become itchy, red, and watery.
Health
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Flags off Free to Shine Campaign Against HIV/AIDS, other STDs in Enugu
Gov. Mbah, wife, pledge collaboration, reports SANDRA ANI
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has flagged off the Free to Shine Triple Elimination Campaign, an initiative of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development, OAFLAD, and global partners to eradicate HIV/AID, Syphilis and Hepatitis by 2030.
Flagging-off the campaign at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, on Tuesday, the founder of the Renewed Hope Foundation, Senator Tinubu said the initiative was an imperative, since Nigeria bore the highest burdens of HIV infection in sub Saharan African due to her large population.
“We launched the campaign in January 2025 and have flagged it off in five political zones of North Central, North East, North West, South South and South West. Today, we have flagged off the campaign in southeast to complete the Free to Shine campaign.
“Our aim is to reduce HIV infection among women, prevent mother and child transmission and ensure that every child born with it gets the necessary treatment,” Tinubu said.
She thanked Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State and his Wife, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah and the people Enugu State for the warm reception accorded to her and her entourage. During her two-day working visit.
Throwing his weight behind the campaign, Governor Mbah, said his administration had taken health seriously because a healthy population is the foundation on which progress is built.
“Here in Enugu State, we have aligned our healthcare priorities with the vision of the ‘Free to Shine Campaign.’
“By September, we would have completed and fully equipped 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres in all wards — each with accommodation for health workers to ensure round-the-clock care.
“We have also strengthened our secondary and tertiary healthcare systems and broadened access to health insurance and emergency services, especially for the most vulnerable.
“These efforts are already yielding results — with a significant reduction in maternal, under-five and infant mortality.
“But we know the work is not done. No health system can thrive in isolation or assume it no longer needs support. This is why we embrace the goals of the ‘Free to Shine Campaign’ — goals that seek to eliminate stigma, expand access to HIV treatment, and, most importantly, end mother-to-child transmission of HIV,” he stated.
The First Lady of Enugu State, Mrs Mbah, commended Senator Tinubu and OAFLAD for providing leadership against the scourges of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.
“I commend the First Lady, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for demonstrating leadership and commitment to the health and well-being of Nigerians.
“As 2023 data from the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) shows, Nigeria has one hundred and forty thousand (140,000) children aged 0 – 14 living with HIV, with twenty-two thousand (22,000) deaths each year. This is an enormous public health burden with vast social and economic implications. So, the ‘Free to Shine Campaign’ is indeed a creation of necessity,” Mrs. Mbah said.
She expressed total support for the initiative, noting that “collaboration is the driving force of change and development.”
“When we collaborate, problems that seem intractable are solved. So, I am confident that the goals of this campaign will be achieved in Enugu State, in Nigeria – and across Africa. What is required is whole-hearted dedication,” she concluded.
The event featured a general overview of the Free to Shine Campaign, by the Executive Secretary for OAFLAD, Dr. Nardos Berhanu, testimonials and experience sharing by persons living with HIV/AIDS, drama presentation by Members of the National Youth Service Corps, and goodwill messages by development partners, among others.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian First Lady was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ugosinamba (Precious Jewel/Eagle from another kingdom) by the Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, citing her love for Enugu and service to the nation and humanity.
Health
Enhancement of Military Health Services: Matawalle Meets U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Health
In a significant move to bolster Defence Health Services and strengthen the partnership between the United States and Nigeria, the Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle, met with a U.S. delegation led by Dr. David Smith, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for Health.
A statement endorsed by Henshaw Ogubike, director of Information and PR at the Ministry, shows that the the meeting focused on enhancing the existing collaboration in defence health between the two nations, which has previously facilitated the establishment of high-tech laboratories in Nigeria.
The Honourable Minister commended the U.S. for their efforts and urged for the expansion of these medical facilities beyond Abuja and Lagos to reach more derserved regions.
Dr. Matawalle emphasized the strategic integration of health services to improve the welfare of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, stating, “A healthy military is the backbone of a strong nation.” He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that military personnel have access to top-tier healthcare services and facilities. To this end, he called for an increase in the defence budget allocated to health, viewing it as a vital investment in the nation’s future and stability.
Furthermore, the Minister highlighted that these initiatives align with Nigeria’s broader commitment to enhancing military readiness while addressing public health challenges that affect both service members and the civilian population. He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is dedicated to improving healthcare for military personnel and civilians, recognizing healthcare as a cornerstone of national security.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana mni, stated that this initiative would positively impact military health and serve as a model for strengthening Nigeria’s overall healthcare system. “This collaboration marks a turning point for Nigeria’s defence health system,” he asserted.
Dr. Smith praised the Minister for his proactive approach to health readiness, underscoring the critical connection between health systems and military effectiveness. “Health is as crucial as any weapon system in ensuring military success, and we are committed to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its defence health system,” he remarked.
The U.S. delegation is in Nigeria to further advance initiatives aimed at sustaining progress against HIV, accelerating efforts towards the United Nations’ 95-95-95 goals, and working towards the elimination of HIV as a public health threat by 2030.
Health
Neptune Prime publisher to unveil cancer clinic, school, foundation for late journalists’ families as son weds in Yobe
The publisher of Neptune Prime newspapers, Dr Hassan Gimba, has announced plans to commission three major projects in his home state, Yobe State
In an invitation letter sent to newsmen on Wednesday, the publisher disclosed that the event, which is scheduled to take place on August 31, is coinciding with the wedding Fatiha of his son, Barrister Suleiman Gimba.
According to the letter, the wedding Fatiha will take place by 11:00am at the residence of Mohammed Babate, Behind Water Board, Army Barracks, Potiskum.
“Immediately after the wedding Fatihah, we will be commissioning the Hafsatu Gimba Ahmed Memorial School located at VIO Street, Unguwar Jaji, Potiskum.
“This institution is dedicated to the memory of my late mother, aiming to serve the educational needs of our community,” the letter noted.
Dr Gimba added that as part of the launch programme, the Abubakar Monja Lifeline Foundation for Late Journalists’ Families, which he founded to cater to the families of journalists who have passed away, will be empowering youths it trained in tailoring and plumbing.
“Additionally, I would like to invite you to inspect the ongoing construction of the Lami Fatima Babare Cancer Outreach and Clinic situated nearby, also in Unguwar Jaji.
“The clinic is an initiative of the Lami Fatima Babare Cervical Cancer Foundation, which was founded in 2020 – in memory of my late wife, Lami Fatima Babare – to provide medical services and referrals to cancer patients,” the letter noted.
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