Glaucoma: Over 12m Nigerians On The Brink OF Irreversible Blindness

Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness is on the rampage in Nigeria: putting over 12 million Nigerians on the line.

The Federal Government says that between 12 million and 14 million Nigerians live with glaucoma, a disease it describes as a major public health concern.

The Federal Government spoke through the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, today during a press briefing in Abuja to mark 2026 World Glaucoma Week.

This is even as he cited studies showing that 90–94% of Nigerians of such glaucoma cases remain undiagnosed, with the carriers risking irreversible blindness.

It is in realisation of the risk involved that the Federal Government, according to him, has prioritised eye care services under the National Eye Health Strategic Development Plan (2024–2028).

Using this ambit, integrated eye care services are being strengthened across primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare facilities to improve early detection and management of glaucoma.

“This year’s theme, Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World, is a call for governments, healthcare providers, communities, and individuals to work together against the silent thief of sight.

“Early detection through simple, painless tests is crucial. If diagnosed, adherence to medical advice can help prevent progression,” Salako said.

Investigations show that the ministry has developed Nigeria Glaucoma Guidelines and Toolkits to standardise diagnosis, treatment, and referral protocols nationwide.

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This is even as ophthalmologists from all 36 states and the FCT have been trained to establish state-level training programmes.

Additionally, more than 2,200 primary healthcare workers across 16 states have been trained under the Better Vision 2.0 Effective Spectacle Coverage Initiative Nigeria to conduct basic vision screenings and refer patients to specialised facilities.

To stem the threat of the irreversible blindness, the minister has urged Nigerians, particularly those over 40, to prioritise regular eye examinations, especially given the week-long campaign with opportunities for free glaucoma screenings in selected health facilities in 11 states and the FCT