The Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, in its commitment to improving healthcare in Nigeria, has performed a total of 529 eye surgeries on those who previously lacked access to affordable and quality medical treatment since its establishment on February 2, 2016.
The facility, a medical arm of the Uma Ukpai Evangelical Association founded by Rev. Dr Uma Ukpai, has become a beacon of hope for underserved populations across six local government areas in three neighbouring states, encompassing an estimated 80 to 120 rural communities.
Dr Anya Kalu, a consultant ophthalmologist at the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, in a release that also announced the 80th birthday of Rev. Dr Uma Ukpai stated that the eye surgeries have had a transformative impact on many underserved populations requiring essential eye care services.
He declared, “The surgeries provided at our centre have changed lives. Many patients have regained their sight and can now lead normal lives, which was previously a distant dream for them.”
According to Dr. Kalu, the Eye Centre has effectively bridged the healthcare gap, ensuring that individuals who might otherwise go blind due to untreated conditions can access timely and effective treatment.
“The centre has gained recognition for its commitment to delivering high-quality ophthalmological care, including advanced procedures such as phacoemulsification cataract surgery, commonly known as ‘laser cataract surgery,’” he said.
The release stated that Rev. (Dr.) Ukpai’s journey into healthcare is deeply rooted in his personal experiences. After losing his father at a young age, he developed a profound empathy for those facing hardship. This empathy has fuelled his commitment to serve marginalised communities both spiritually and physically.
In a comment, Rev. (Dr.) Ukpai said, “I know what it means to lose a father and to be a father at a tender age. I learnt early in life that the stone Satan throws at you can become your stepping staircase to a life of abundance.”
In addition to his healthcare initiatives, Rev. Dr. Ukpai’s dual role as a pastor and healthcare provider illustrates the powerful intersection of faith and service, reminding that with dedication and vision, a healthier future can be created for everyone.
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He founded the King of Kings Specialist Hospital in 1999, which has grown into a vital healthcare institution in the region, offering a wide range of medical services, including internal medicine, general surgeries, obstetrics and gynaecology, and specialised ophthalmology care. It focused on providing high-quality care to their patients.
Since its inception, the centre has not only performed surgeries but has also served as a training ground for healthcare professionals, enhancing the overall quality of care in the region. By integrating community health training into its mission, the Eye Centre ensures that knowledge and skills are shared among healthcare workers, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.