Borno Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has launched a free eye surgery programme for patients suffering from cataract, glaucoma, and other eye-related diseases.
The programme, initiated by Senator Ali Ndume and supported by the state government, aims to provide relief to vulnerable persons in the state.
Speaking at the launch of the programme in Maiduguri on Monday, Governor Zulum noted that the programme is initially designed to help over 1,000 vulnerable persons but has been scaled up to treat 10,000 patients.
According to him, “We believe that those who came here are vulnerable people in the communities, suffering from the disease because they don’t have the means, and that’s why they’re staying with the disease blindness.”
The governor announced that the Eye Hospital in Monguno will soon be commissioned, allowing patients in the area to receive treatment without having to travel to the state capital.
He added that the programme will cover 3,000 operations for cataract and glaucoma patients in Monguno, 2,000 in Biu, and more in other places in the state.
Governor Zulum directed the hospital management to continue performing operations for all patients, saying, “On this note, we have given a directive to the management of the hospital that they should continue doing the operation for any patient that is here.” As part of the programme, each patient will receive N50, while the hospital staff will be given N100,000.
The governor explained that the programme was initially designed for 1,000 patients but has been expanded to accommodate more patients.
He also announced that each patient will be required to provide their account details, and those without accounts will be given their money in cash.
Governor Zulum expressed happiness at the progress of the patients, saying, “We are happy that you are now getting better.”
He thanked Senator Ndume for bringing the initiative and the state government for its support. Senator Ndume, who was present at the event, commended Governor Zulum for his efforts in improving the healthcare sector in the state, praising his commitment to providing quality healthcare services to the people of Borno State, particularly the vulnerable ones.
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE