Abia Gov. Wife advocates proper eye check-up for children
Ogbonnaya Ikokwu, Umuahia
The wife of the Abia State Governor Mrs Precila Otti, has urged parents and care givers in the state to prioritize their children’s eye health through regular eye check-up.
She also vowed that the state government will on its own will empower families, schools, and communities with the knowledge they need to access their children’s eye health.
Mrs Otti spoke on Thursday in Umuahia the state capital, during an event to mark the year 2024
World Sight Day, with the theme: “Love Your Eyes, Kids”.
She emphasize that early detection is key to preventing eye defects in children, adding that by catching issues early, long-term damage can be stopped giving the children the opportunity to thrive.
The Abia’s first lady disclosed that the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau, is hard
to expand eye care outreach by training more healthcare workers, establishing new eye clinics, and working hard to reduce the costs associated with eye treatments.
She added that the efforts are all aimed at creating a system where no child is left behind due to vision impairment.
She said, “Our eyes are a window to the beauty of the world, a gateway to knowledge and opportunity. They connect us to those we love and the dreams we hold dear. Yet, across Abia State, too many of our children are facing preventable vision challenges—often undiagnosed or untreated, particularly in rural areas. This is not the reality they deserve.
“Today is a call to action for each of us. 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.
“We must move swiftly and with purpose. By making eye health a priority, we can ensure that every child in Abia State, regardless of where they live, has access to proper care. This starts with regular eye screenings, accessible eye clinics, and programs that extend to every corner of our communities.
“I must commend my dear husband, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, for his unwavering commitment to improving eye health in our beloved state. His leadership and dedication have laid a strong foundation for progress in this critical area.
“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. Regular eye check-ups are crucial for early detection and prevention of potential vision problems, ensuring that we all maintain healthy eyesight for years to come.
” I urge parents and care givers to take the children to clinics for regular eye check-ups, raise awareness in your communities, and advocate for improved eye care services. Investing in the vision of our children is investing in their future—and the future of Abia State.
“Together, we can create a brighter, healthier future where every child has the chance to see the world clearly, and to reach their full potential’.