By Doris Obinna
Guinness Nigeria PLC has commissioned a renovated Guinness Eye Centre at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, as part of its commitment to healthcare development in the country
The renovation include; plumbing, roofing and electrical works, furniture and aluminium works, comprehensive renovation of the toilets and construction of a water tank, as well painting and electrical works among others.
In his welcome address, the incoming Managing Director, Mr Adebayo Alli, said the company was deeply committed to impacting communities where they operated and where their people live.
According to him, the Eye Centre, constructed nearly 30 years ago, costs approximately N155 million including an annual five million-naira equipment grant.
Adebayo expressed the company’s dedication to community impact through their Environmental Social Governance Strategy, Society 2030: Spirit of Progress which is the company’s 10-Year action plan to help create a more inclusive and sustainable world.
He stressed inclusion and diversity as the second of the three pillars on which its ESG strategy is hinged, and the event falls under.
On her part, the Board Chair, Guinness Nigeria PLC, Dr Omobola Johnson, described the commissioning as a significant milestone in their long-standing commitment to social investment and positive impact in Nigeria.
“Since its establishment in 1994, the Guinness Eye Centre has been pivotal in providing comprehensive ophthalmic care services to thousands of patients annually, conducting 650 eye surgeries on average.
“The centre also serves as a training facility for medical and ophthalmic nursing students, an examination center for medical colleges, and an international examination center. Since its inception in 1994, the Guinness Eye Centre has played a pivotal role in the area of eye health services, providing comprehensive ophthalmic care services to a wide range of patients across Nigeria and neighboring countries.
“Annually, the Guinness Eye Centre sees an average of 3,000 new patients and 15,000 old patients. Also, averages of 650 eye surgeries are performed annually at this centre.”
Also, Chief Medical Director, LUTH, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, highlighted Guinness Nigeria PLC’s continuous commitment, including a yearly grant of NGN 5 million for equipment support for the past 28 years, totaling NGN 140 million.
According to Adeyemo, NGN 3.2 million in 2011 was allocated for general renovation, while praising Guinness Nigeria PLC’s unwavering commitment to caring for Nigerians, he emphasised on their enduring dedication to excellence in healthcare.
Former CMD, LUTH, Prof. Chris Bode on his part said that Guinness Nigeria Plc was committed to a dream, vision and passion to care for Nigerians and has always committed to excellence.