6,000 Nigerians to Regain Sight as NNPC Foundation Rolls out Nationwide Cataract Surgery Program

The NNPC Foundation Ltd/Gte, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of NNPC Ltd., is scaling up its social intervention programs with three transformative initiatives targeting healthcare, education, and agriculture. These efforts aim to improve the quality of life and create sustainable opportunities for Nigerians.

Expanding Access to Free Cataract Surgeries

Building on the success of its cataract surgery intervention in the South-West region—where 1,002 individuals, including children born blind, regained their sight—the Foundation is extending this program to the South-East and South-South regions. This marks the next phase of its nationwide rollout, which will subsequently reach the three Northern regions and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

With cataracts responsible for over 43% of blindness cases in Nigeria, the initiative aims to restore vision for 6,000 beneficiaries, providing free screenings, surgeries, and post-operative care. The next phase is scheduled to commence on March 31, 2025, in the South-East and South-South regions.

Enhancing STEM Education Nationwide

Recognizing the critical role of science and technology in national development, the NNPC Foundation is addressing the shortage of quality learning resources in schools. In its second phase, the Foundation will distribute 25,000 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) textbooks and branded bookshelves to 25 secondary schools across 24 states and the FCT. This builds upon the initial phase, where 15,000 STEM books were provided to 12 states and the FCT.

By improving access to STEM education, the initiative seeks to inspire and equip the next generation of Nigerian scientists and engineers, fostering greater enrollment in science and technology disciplines at tertiary institutions.

Empowering Farmers with Modern Techniques

In a bid to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural sector and enhance food security, the Foundation is launching a training program targeting 6,000 vulnerable farmers. The first phase, running from April 7-11, 2025, will equip 1,000 farmers in the South-East and South-South regions with modern agricultural techniques. Training will focus on climate-smart farming, organic fertilization, post-harvest loss reduction, and market access strategies. Sessions will be conducted in select locations across three geopolitical zones.

A Commitment to National Development

Commenting on these initiatives, the Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, emphasized the organization’s dedication to addressing critical societal challenges.

“NNPC Foundation is committed to creating meaningful change by restoring sight, equipping students with learning resources, and empowering vulnerable farmers. These interventions are strategic investments in Nigeria’s future,” Arukwe stated.

“These programs reaffirm NNPC Ltd.’s unwavering commitment to the health and prosperity of Nigerians. By tackling key social challenges, we are contributing to the development of a healthier, stronger, and economically empowered nation.”

With these initiatives, the NNPC Foundation is not only delivering essential services but also reinforcing its role as a key driver of social impact and national progress in Nigeria.

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