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.
“Cataract remains one of the leading causes of avoidable blindness, and timely surgery can fully restore vision,” said Dr Ernest Ogbedo, Ophthalmologist at VCDF. Building on this, Programme Manager Philip Ukemezia noted that VCDF has screened 11,858 people and carried out more than 1,070 cataract and pterygium surgeries across Delta and Akwa Ibom States.
This progress has continued in recent months. As of June 2026, VCDF has completed a total of 1,580 surgeries across both states, reflecting steady growth in reach and service delivery. Clinical outcomes remain strong, reinforcing the impact of sustained investment in accessible eye care.
VCDF has leveraged SEEPCO’s corporate social responsibility efforts to provide free eye surgery services and ensure sustainable eye health services in Nigeria.