Ophthalmologists launch $100,000 endowment funds to boost eyecare surgery machines

From Dotun Omisakin, Lagos The faculty of ophthalmology, National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) has launched a $100,000 endowment fund to purchase more simulator assisted cataract surgery training machines in the country. The Chairman of the Faculty of Ophthalmology, Professor Charles Bekibele, stated this during the 26th Annual Faculty Lecture of Ophthalmology, raising concerns […]

From Dotun Omisakin, Lagos

The faculty of ophthalmology, National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) has launched a $100,000 endowment fund to purchase more simulator assisted cataract surgery training machines in the country.

The Chairman of the Faculty of Ophthalmology, Professor Charles Bekibele, stated this during the 26th Annual Faculty Lecture of Ophthalmology, raising concerns over the critical shortage of eye care professionals in Nigeria.

“With a population of over 200 million, including 400,000 Nigerians needing cataract surgery, the country has only about 500 certified ophthalmologists—and only half of them actively perform surgeries due to various barriers,” he lamented.

A consultant ophthalmologist, Dr. Festus Oshoba, in his lecture titled “Force Majeure, Masquerade and the Attainment of Universal Eye Care in Nigeria” cautioned the use of both human or animal urine as a remedy for eye problems.

He described the practice of applying urine to the eyes as dangerous, saying it can lead to severe complications, including blindness.

He urged individuals to seek proper medical attention for any eye-related issues.

“If you observe any eye condition, go to the clinic and stop using things that will not cure the disease but worsen it,” he advised.

He emphasized the importance of sun protection, noting that excessive sunlight exposure is a contributing factor to cataract development.

“When we talk about physical health, the eyes account for more than 50% of sensory input to the brain. The eye is the light of the body. It allows us to appreciate the world and be productive.

“We want to encourage people to see the doctor because many eye conditions are preventable, and most are curable,” he said.

In a show of support, the Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University and chairman of the occasion, Dr. Olatunji Olowolafe pledged to fund the acquisition of the simulation equipment with a donation of $9,800 through his foundation