By Lawal Gwanda
Over 8,000 vulnerable persons benefited from a free eye treatment program in Katsina State.
The program, sponsored by the Ministry of Local Government and Emirate Affairs in collaboration with the 34 Local Government Councils, ended on Friday, August 28th, 2026.
The exercise began in Funtua and Daura Senatorial Districts and was rounded off in Katsina Senatorial District.
According to officials, the closing ceremony was held at the Katsina Eye Centre in Katsina city. The program received massive turnout, especially from people living with eye problems.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Malam Bishir Tanimu Gambo alongside Director Finance and Account of the Ministry Alhaji Rabi’u Abubakar Gagare said the initiative shows the commitment of the Katsina State Government to healthcare and the welfare of its people.
Malam Bishir Tanimu Gambo, said the program was initiated on the directive of the Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda.
He explained that the directive covers all 34 Local Government Areas, with special attention to the 7 Local Governments that were inherited from the former Kaduna State, where cases of eye problems are more prevalent.
The Commissioner advised beneficiaries to strictly follow the instructions given by doctors regarding the use of eye drops and medications, in order to achieve the desired results of the treatment.
He further said “If you experience any discomfort after the treatment, go to the hospital immediately free of charge. And if you face any financial problem, my office is open. Come to me and by God’s grace we will solve the problem.”
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Lawal Aliyu Rabe, reminded beneficiaries that the support came as a result of the Katsina State Government’s concern for their wellbeing.
He therefore commended the state government for the gesture.
The lead coordinator of the program from the Royal Sisters Charity Foundation, Dr. Tafida Abubakar, said the initial plan was to conduct eye surgeries on 1,020 people.
However, he explained that they decided to treat anyone who came forward needing surgery. As a result, they added 144 more patients to the original target.
He said “We did not go to any place and leave anyone behind. And there was no place we went and did not add more people.”_
Dr. Tafida also disclosed that a total of 8,881 people with eye problems were screened across the state, out of which 1,164 persons underwent surgery.
He commended the Katsina State Government, the Ministry and the 34 Local Government Councils for giving them the opportunity and for their foresight in supporting the needy.
He further revealed that a recent survey in Katsina State showed that about 32,000 people are living with cataract.
He therefore appealed to the government to pay more attention to the condition in order to provide treatment.
Earlier, the Medical Director of Katsina Eye Centre, Dr. Aliyu Umar, expressed appreciation to Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, the Ministry for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, and the 34 Local Government Areas for the gesture.
Some of the beneficiaries also spoke at the event.
Malam Yahaya Musa Kabobi from Kaita Local Government and Hajia Amina Sule from Katsina Local Government both thanked the government for the support.
They also prayed for the success of the government in the 2027 general elections.
