The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has urged residents to prioritize routine eye checkups to combat the rising incidence of glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness in Nigeria. At a flag-off event for World Glaucoma Week 2025 in Abuja, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), emphasized the urgent need for increased awareness and early detection of the disease. Represented by Dr. Dan Gadzama, Acting Director of Public Health, Fasawe noted that glaucoma disproportionately affects Africans, with Nigeria among the countries with the highest prevalence.
Describing glaucoma as a “silent thief of sight,” Fasawe highlighted how the disease often progresses unnoticed until significant vision loss occurs. She stated, “Glaucoma is a major public health problem in Nigeria and is more aggressive among Africans, leading to blindness at a faster rate than in other populations.”
According to the Nigeria Blindness and Vision Impairment Survey, glaucoma accounts for 16.7% of blindness cases nationwide, yet only 5.6% of those affected are aware they have the disease. Key risk factors identified include family history, age (40+), high intraocular pressure, and African-Caribbean heritage.
Fasawe pointed out that many patients only seek medical help when the disease is already advanced, often resulting in blindness in one eye. She noted that some patients hesitate to undergo surgery due to the lack of immediate visual improvement, while others struggle with access to medication or adherence to treatment.
Fasawe encouraged FCT residents to take advantage of the World Glaucoma Week initiative for eye testing and early medical attention. She announced that the FCTA and its partners will conduct public sensitization programs, free eye screenings, and advocacy campaigns throughout the week to promote early diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Adaora Okudo, Head of the Ophthalmology Department at Asokoro District Hospital, welcomed attendees and revealed that 94% of Nigerians are unaware of glaucoma. She stressed the importance of regular checkups, as the disease can lead to irreversible blindness.
Dr. Goodluck Ehiemere, Programme Manager of the Eye Care Unit, Public Health Department, expressed gratitude to partners such as Thelish Eye Centre, Tulsi Chanrai Foundation Eye Hospital, and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) for their contributions to eye care services during the outreach.
Experts emphasize that routine eye examinations are crucial for early detection and prevention of glaucoma. The FCTA’s call to action highlights the importance of taking proactive steps to safeguard vision.
