An indigenous energy company, Seplat Energy, in partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, has carried out the 2024 edition of its flagship healthcare initiative, Eye Can See, in Imo State.
For over five days, the initiative has been delivering critical eye care services – free screenings, surgeries, and distribution of eyeglasses – to thousands of underserved residents, reaffirming the JV’s unwavering commitment to improving healthcare access in its host communities.
The flag-off of the ‘Eye Can See’ programme in Imo State took place on September 19, 2024, in Owerri, the state capital, marking a significant milestone in Seplat’s long-standing legacy of impactful healthcare outreach, which began in 2012.
Since its inception, the initiative has, before now, reached over 105,000 Nigerians, performed 4,560 life-changing eye surgeries, and distributed more than 51,000 reading glasses – all with the aim of reducing preventable blindness, promoting early detection of eye diseases, and enhancing the quality of life for beneficiaries.
Speaking at the flag-off, the Managing Director of the Eastern Asset, Ibi-Ada Itotoi, represented by the Base Manager, Eastern Asset , Emmanuel Otokhine, emphasised the company’s dedication to a holistic people and community development.
He said, “We are not just an operator in the regions where we work; we are partners in progress. Initiatives like ‘Eye Can See’ ensure that our communities experience the tangible benefits of our presence and that our commitment goes beyond business operations.”
Similarly, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Services, Bala Wunti, represented by Asset Manager at NUIMS, Dr. Obinna Otuu, highlighted the broader impact of the programme.
He said, “Success is not only about managing resources but about uplifting lives.
“The ‘Eye Can See’ initiative is a testament to our deep-seated commitment to the well-being of the communities we serve. Through this programme, NNPCL and Seplat Energy are not only addressing urgent medical needs, but also educating communities on managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, which can lead to vision loss.”
The significance of the ‘Eye Can See’ programme resonated with the Imo State government, as the state Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Gas Development, Emeka Mgbudem, praised the initiative, saying, “Seplat and NNPCL have shown that their partnership goes beyond energy production. It is about human development – health, education, and capacity building.
“When I look at the array of people treated for glaucoma and cataracts today, it demonstrates that their vision is for a better future. Seplat has remained our best partner, and we are proud of the work they are doing.”
Also, the Olu Oha II of Mgbala-Agwa autonomous community, in Oguta Local Government Area. Eze Ubah said, “Seplat has consistently stood out as a responsible corporate citizen.
“They have brought this programme to our community as they have in previous years, and they continue to set the standard for others in the industry. Their dedication is unmatched.”
For many beneficiaries, the programme has become a beacon of hope. Adanne Ekeneme, whose relative received a free eye screening and treatment, expressed her gratitude, saying, “This programme is life-changing. What would have cost us a fortune is being provided for free. I pray that God continues to bless Seplat and NNPC for their kindness.”
Chief Hyginus Onyeuka, who underwent cataract surgery, shared his transformative experience, saying “I was blind for many years, but today I can see clearly. I can’t thank Seplat enough for restoring my sight. This programme is nothing short of a miracle for people like me.”
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