Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has approved a free eye surgery programme targeting 10,000 residents suffering from various visual impairments, including cataracts.
The initiative, which began on Monday, was flagged off by Governor Zulum in collaboration with Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South at the National Assembly. Ndume contributed funds to cover surgeries for the first 500 patients.
Initially planned for 1,000 beneficiaries, the programme was expanded following a massive turnout of residents in need of medical attention. Governor Zulum explained the rationale behind the expansion during the flag-off ceremony.
“We launched this programme to assist over 1,000 individuals, focusing on cataract surgeries. However, the overwhelming number of people in dire need of medical care prompted us to scale it up to 10,000 beneficiaries,” Zulum stated.
The expanded programme will conduct 4,000 cataract surgeries in Maiduguri, 3,000 in Southern Borno, and another 3,000 in Northern Borno.
Zulum also approved a cash grant of N50,000 for each patient who undergoes surgery to aid their post-operative recovery and care.
“Many of these individuals have been unable to seek treatment for over two years due to the high cost of surgery. This cash support is to ensure they have the resources to properly recover after the procedure,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to Senator Ndume and other stakeholders for their contributions to the programme, emphasizing the collective effort required to address medical challenges in the state.
“On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have played a role in this initiative. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the lives of our people,” the governor added.