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The House of Representatives on Wednesday took steps to improve eye care services in Nigeria by passing a Bill to amend the National Eye Centre Act, 2004, through its second reading. The Bill, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Hon. Babajimi Benson, and five other lawmakers, seeks to create more specialist eye care centres across the country.
Hon. Kalu explained that the Bill aims to address the rising cases of eye problems like cataracts, glaucoma, and vision issues, which are common, especially in rural areas where access to treatment is scarce. He noted that while the National Eye Centre in Kaduna has done well, it cannot meet the needs of the entire population.
The proposed law will establish five additional specialist eye care centres, one in each of the geopolitical zones not currently served. These centres will have their own management boards and committees to oversee daily operations, research, and training in eye care.
“This Bill is about giving every Nigerian a fair chance at quality eye care, no matter where they live,” Kalu said during the debate. He emphasized that expanding eye care services will reduce travel costs for patients, improve treatment access, and ensure no one is left behind.
After deliberation, the Bill was supported by the majority of lawmakers and referred to the Committee on Speciality Healthcare for further work.
