by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has ordered for free eye surgery to be given to 10,000 persons in the State.
He announced that the setting-up of an Eye Camp is a programme that will provide free eye surgeries for 10,000 residents that are suffering from various visual impairments, including cataracts.

The governor approved these free services on Monday, when he flagged-off the free eye surgery operations programme, jointly organized by Borno State Government and the Senator representing Borno South at the National Assembly, Ali Ndume, who provided funds to cover the operational cost of 500 people.
Governor Zulum explained that, the programme was earlier planned to benefit 1,000 people, but due to the overwhelming turnout, it was expanded to allow 10,000 people to receive free eye surgery.
“We launched a programme to provide medical attention to over 1,000 individuals, focusing on cataract operations. During the exercise, I was struck by the overwhelming number of people in need. Many have not received medical attention in over two years because of the cost of operation,” he noted.
According to him, he has directed that the programme be expanded to support up to 10,000 patients, saying, “And we will undertake cataract operations for 4,000 patients in Maiduguri, an additional 3,000 in Southern Borno, and another 3,000 in Northern Borno.”
Governor Zulum also approved cash support of N50,000 each for those, who have undergone cataract operations, to support them in managing their post-operative care.
He expressed gratitude to Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume and all other stakeholders for their child’s contributions to providing free medical service to those in need.
“On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I express my heartfelt appreciation to all, who have contributed to this initiative. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our citizens,” Zulum said.