Wife of the Abia State governor, Pricillia Otti, has urged parents and guardians to make eye health of their wards a top priority as the state joined to mark this year’s World Sight Day yesterday.
Mrs Otti spoke yesterday in an address in Umuahia, the state capital, after a road walk from the Government House to Ibeku High School to create awareness and sensitise the people on the subject.
“Take them to clinics for regular eye check-ups, raise awareness in your communities, and advocate for improved eye care services.
“As we come together to observe the World Sight Day 2024 under the theme: Love Your Eyes, Kids, I am reminded of how precious the gift of sight is and how urgent it is that we protect it for generations to come,” she said.
She said too many children across the state were facing preventable vision challenges—often undiagnosed or untreated, particularly in the rural areas.
“This is not the reality they deserve. We have the responsibility not just to treat, but to prevent blindness and vision impairment.
“Our children deserve to grow, learn and play with clear vision, unburdened by the avoidable challenges of poor eye health. In addition, we have conducted 100 percent free eye screenings across various locations within the state. I strongly encourage everyone to take full advantage of these opportunities whenever they are available,” she added.
The administrator of the State’s Eye Health Management Bureau, Betty Emeka-Obasi, said early detection and correction of eye problems were crucial for the development and future of children.
“The theme of the event was chosen to inspire children and young persons to protect their vision and remove the stigma associated with wearing glasses,” she said.
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