Cataracts remain a leading cause of blindness in Nigeria. They account for 44 percent of cases, with over 1.1 million people living with vision impairment. In Delta State alone, more than 25,000 residents are affected without treatment, limiting daily life and economic participation.
At Central Hospital Kwale, activity has intensified at the Cataract Surgery Unit as Vcare for Development Foundation VCDF began free cataract surgeries. This effort is delivered in partnership with the Delta State Ministry of Health under a formal agreement and supported by Sterling Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited SEEPCO through the Sustainable Primary Eye Care Services Programme.
The first set of surgeries were carried out on February 26, 2026, serving patients from Ndokwa East and Ndokwa West. The process is coordinated end to end. Community screenings identify patients, transportation is arranged to the facility, certified ophthalmologists conduct assessments and perform surgery, and post-operative care includes medication, protective eye shields, and scheduled follow up visits.
Community response has been strong, with both young and elderly residents seeking care sharing testimonials. “VCDF has brought specialized eye care directly to our people. The impact is immediate and life changing.” said High Chief Engr. Godwin Ifeanyi Edema of Utagba Ogbe Kingdom. “I had almost lost hope of seeing clearly again. Today, I had free cataract surgery. I am grateful to VCDF.” said Emeke Odigili.
Clinical outcomes continue to build momentum. “Cataract remains one of the leading causes of avoidable blindness, and timely surgery can completely restore vision. To date, the team has conducted 113 successful surgeries in Delta State.” said Dr. Ernest Ogbedo, Ophthalmologist at VCDF. Programme Manager Philip Ukemezia added that VCDF has screened 11,858 people and completed over 1,070 cataract and pterygium surgeries across Delta and Akwa Ibom, with plans to expand into more communities.
VCDF has leveraged SEEPCO’s corporate social responsibility efforts to provide free eye surgery services and ensure sustainable eye health services in Nigeria.