Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged residents of Rivers State to prioritise eye health and undergo screening for glaucoma to prevent avoidable blindness.
The governor made the call on Thursday at the Government House, Port Harcourt in a goodwill message marking World Glaucoma Day, according to a statement from his media aide, Onwuka Nzeshi.
Fubara described glaucoma as a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and stressed that early detection is crucial to preventing vision loss.
He encouraged residents, especially those over 40 or with a family history of vision impairment, to visit healthcare facilities for regular eye checks.
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“My administration is committed to improving healthcare in Rivers State. We’ll continue supporting initiatives that promote eye health and reduce preventable blindness,” he said.
Fubara called on citizens to unite for a glaucoma-free Rivers State, adding, “Protect your sight, it’s priceless. Happy World Glaucoma Day.”
The statement noted that World Glaucoma Day, observed annually on March 12, seeks to raise awareness about the disease, which is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs.
Globally, glaucoma affects over 75 million people, with nearly half unaware that they have the condition.