Shell Nigeria and Exploration and Production Company of Nigeria Limited (SNEPCo) and its partner, Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), recently concluded their Vision First Initiative, providing free eye care services to over 4000 residents of Lagos Island communities.
This weeklong program, launched in 2022, aimed to offer free screening, glasses, surgeries, and prescriptions to improve the vision of Nigerians.
Mr. Bala Wunti, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), emphasized the importance of accessible and affordable medical eye care.
He stated that clear vision should be a fundamental right for all, and the Vision First Initiative serves as a contribution to preventive and corrective visual aids for Nigerians.
NUIMS Manager, Stakeholder Relations, Ms. Julie Utang, representing Mr. Wunti, affirmed their commitment to implementing sustainable Corporate Social Responsibility projects that positively impact the lives of Nigerians.
Mrs. Elohor Aiboni, the Managing Director of SNEPCo, highlighted the initiative’s continued focus on providing visual aids, surgical treatments, and prevention of visual impairment and childhood blindness.
Speaking through her representative, Mrs. Lara Taiwo-Ogunbodede, SNEPCo’s Managing Counsel, Aiboni stressed the importance of vision acuity and clear eyesight in improving individuals’ quality of life.
The Vision First Initiative aims to eliminate preventable and treatable blindness while also promoting risk communication on poor health-seeking behaviors.
During the program, approximately 2,000 people were screened, and 1,199 prescription glasses were dispensed.
Additionally, 1,310 beneficiaries received medication, while 189 individuals underwent successful eye procedures.
The initiative’s impact was acknowledged by Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, the Permanent Secretary for Health, represented by Dr. Adeniran Ifeyemi, the Deputy Director. Dr. Ogboye expressed gratitude to NNPC, SNEPCo, and their co-venture partners for their commitment to improving healthcare.
He emphasized that health is an integral component of the Lagos State government’s ‘T.H.E.M.E.S. Agenda,’ and the initiative aligns with the state’s goal of ensuring quality, equitable, and affordable healthcare for all residents.
Mr. Muibi Folawiyo, the Chairman of Lagos Island East Local Council Development Area, commended the “Vision First Initiative” for its impact on the people of his local council. He invited other organizations to follow the example set by SNEPCo and its partners in prioritizing the health and well-being of Nigerian communities.
