....CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE
By Emmanuel Kwada
A bill sponsored by Senator Abbas Aminu Iya to establish a National Eye Centre in Jimeta, Adamawa State, has passed its second reading in the Senate. This development followed Senator Iya’s presentation of the bill’s general principles at Thursday’s plenary session, where he noted that the bill was first read on July 10, 2024.
Senator Iya emphasized that cataract and glaucoma are leading causes of severe visual impairment and blindness in Nigeria. He also highlighted Trachoma, an infectious eye disease caused by chlamydia trachomatis bacteria, commonly found among rural dwellers in Nigeria, including Jimeta and other Adamawa State communities.
Cataract and glaucoma are leading causes of severe visual impairment and blindness in Nigeria
“It is spread by direct contact with the eye or nose of an infected person which causes inflammation of the eyelids and can lead to scarring of the cornea.
“This is one of the eye diseases commonly found among rural dwellers in Nigeria, and Jimeta as well as other communities of Adamawa State is not an exception.
“This, in addition to other conditions like uncorrected refractive errors are found to be among major causes of blindness and visual impairment in Adamawa State and the country at large” he said.
The eye centre Jimeta, when established will help to prevent and treat eye diseases
The eye centre Jimeta, when established will help to prevent and treat eye diseases.
“The centre will enhance and train more eye care providers and professionals alike.
“The centre will promote research and innovations in the field of eye care for Adamawa State and the country.
“In the overall analysis, the centre when fully established will create jobs, and boost local economy, which will have direct effect on the national economy” Senator Aminu Iya said.
The centre will serve not only Adamawa State but also neighboring states. Currently, individuals with eye challenges in these states must travel to Kaduna for treatment, posing significant challenges due to economic and security concerns. Senator Iya urged lawmakers to support the bill, which has been referred to the Committee of Health for further legislative action.
Read Also:Adamawa Police Commissioner Consoles 23 Brigade Over COAS’ Death
