The NNPC/Seplat Energy JV has handed over a fully equipped state-of-the-art Eye Centre to the Delta State government, to serve as a hub for the treatment of all eye related issues within the region and beyond. The event which took place on 7th October, 2024, at the Sapele Central Hospital, marked a significant milestone for the Joint Venture’s commitment towards improving the quality of life for the people.
In her opening remark, the Director, External Affairs and Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, noted that the Eye Centre is a testament to the company’s unwavering dedication to accessible and high-quality eye care. “The facilities are truly impressive and we have the latest diagnostic equipment and comfortable patient treatment areas. Every aspect of this Eye Center has been designed with the well-being of our patients in mind. It will not only provide comprehensive eye care but, we believe, will also serve as a platform for our scholars in the community, who will have the opportunity to intern and also gain experience. As part of our ongoing effort to maintain this Eye Centre, we have instituted a fund to ensure that there is availability of essential medication. We are also committed to supporting the provision of cataract surgeries to all those in need.”
The Chief Operating Officer, Seplat Energy, Samson Ezugworie, delivered a message of hope, assuring that the NNPC/Seplat JV working with the community and other stakeholders, is committed to transforming lives and restoring hope to people suffering from visual problems. “I am immensely proud of the work that has been done by our JV over the past 12 years, since we started the Eye Can See Programme. And today, we are going to the next level by launching this Eye Centre. This is coming with state-of-the-art facilities and technology that are capable of making sure that everyone in this kingdom, the State and beyond will have the opportunity to regain their sight.”
The Orodje of Okpe, His Royal Majesty, Major General Mujakperuo Agho (Rtd) expressed appreciation to the NNPC/Seplat JV for establishing the Eye Centre. “I want to, on behalf of the peace-loving people of Okpe Kingdom, welcome you again for the good things you are doing in our community. I am particularly happy for this Eye Centre you have built for us, as an extension of the Eye Can See project, which you have been undertaking for years now, through which most of our people who have given up hope, can see now. We appreciate you.” The Orodje, however, called on the NNPC/Seplat JV to do more, especially in the area of employment for his people, as well as assisting to curb insecurity, drug abuse and other vices in the community.
Also speaking during the event, the Permanent Secretary, Delta State Ministry of Health, Paul Okubor, appreciated the management of Seplat Energy for the donation of the Eye Center. “It is not just the building and it is not just about your corporate social responsibility. What you have just done represents hope; it represents health and represents a brighter future for all patients from Sapele and environs and indeed, the entire State, that will utilise this facility. The Delta State government is doing a lot to provide quality healthcare services to our people, but we all agree that the government cannot do it alone. That is where this initiative and Seplat come into play. And that is why it is awesome that Seplat has decided to do this for us and we remain eternally grateful.”
Yemisi Lawal, the representative of NNPC Exploration & Production Limited (NEPL), affirmed that, “This is, indeed, a big milestone for us because in the past we have been going from one community to the other, providing healthcare services, particularly in the area of eye services. And it gives us great joy in NEPL to see that this has been completed and we thank our partners, Seplat Energy.”
She further urged the community to take good care of the Eye Center and be committed to seeing its sustainability.
The Eye Can See initiative, which commenced 12 years ago, has impacted a significant number of persons. Through the initiative, the NNPC/Seplat JV has screened 105,000 patients, performed 4,560 surgeries and dispensed 51,574 glasses. The initiative collaborates with reputable medical practitioners and organisations, including the Family Health Outreach Association and the Medical Women Association of Nigeria, to deliver the Eye Can See Programme, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which is designed to deliver Good Health and Well Being, to ensure healthy lives and promote wellbeing of all at all ages.
The colourful handover ceremony took place amid fanfare, featuring dance performances and had in attendance other senior executives, including Sadiq Adeshina, General Manager, HSE, Seplat Energy; Esther Icha, Senior Manager, Social Performance/Corporate Social Investment, as well as several Chiefs, government officials, religious leaders and beneficiaries.