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By Doris Obinna
Lagos State Government took its glaucoma awareness campaign to the heart of the State Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, on Tuesday, mobilising civil servants, health officials, and eye care professionals for a “Walk for Sight” in commemoration of the 2026 World Glaucoma Week.
The walk which began at the Ministry of Health was aimed at raising awareness about glaucoma, promoting early diagnosis, and encouraging proactive steps to protect vision.
Participants used the event to sensitise workers and visitors about the dangers of glaucoma and the importance of early detection through routine eye examinations.
Speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Dayo Lajide, described glaucoma as a “silent killer of sight,” warning that many people live with the condition unknowingly until permanent vision loss occurs. She highlighted that although glaucoma does not cause death, the progressive loss of sight can significantly affect an individual’s psychological wellbeing and productivity.
Lajide urged Lagosians, particularly those with a family history of glaucoma or blindness, to adopt the habit of regular eye examinations, noting that early detection is the most effective way to prevent irreversible vision loss.
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Civil servants in the secretariat were informed that they can access free eye care services at the Blindness Prevention Programme Unit at the Folarin Coker Staff Clinic, while members of the public are encouraged to visit General Hospitals and selected Primary Health Centres across the state for screening and treatment.
Also, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Mrs. Olayinka Modupe Ojo, commended the Ministry of Health for organising the campaign, describing glaucoma as a dangerous condition that often progresses unnoticed until significant damage occurs. She encouraged public servants to take advantage of government-supported eye screening programmes and to adopt healthy lifestyles that support long-term eye health.
Meanwhile, Director of Medical Administration, Training and Programmes at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, noted that glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness globally after cataract and that the risk rises significantly after the age of 40. She stressed the importance of cultivating a strong health-seeking behaviour, particularly the culture of routine eye checks.
Erinosho also revealed that as part of World Glaucoma Week activities, the ministry would take screening and awareness outreach to the Sunday Market in Ogba, bringing eye care services closer to grassroots communities.
Chairperson, Nigerian Optometric Association, Lagos Chapter, Dr. Gloria Okoekhi-an-Ogulu, reiterated that glaucoma, often called the “silent thief of sight,” develops gradually without noticeable early symptoms. She emphasised that people of African descent are genetically more predisposed to glaucoma, making awareness campaigns and routine examinations especially critical for Nigerians.
Okoekhi-an-Ogulu stressed that while glaucoma may not always be preventable, blindness from the condition can be avoided through early detection, proper treatment, and adherence to medical advice.
