An international non-governmental organization, Albasar International Foundation, has commissioned the Makkah Specialist Eye Hospital in Ibadan, a move health officials say could help address the growing burden of visual impairment and preventable blindness in Oyo state and neighboring communities. The event took place on Monday, June 8, 2026, at the hospital located in the Elebu area of Ibadan.
The ceremony was attended by government officials, healthcare professionals, traditional rulers, development partners, and residents. Among the dignitaries were the representative of Governor Seyi Makinde, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and the Oyo state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi.
Foundation Targets Avoidable Blindness
Speaking at the event, the Secretary General of Albasar International Foundation, Adel Abdulaziz Alrashood, stated that the organization is focused on tackling blindness caused by inadequate access to basic eye care. He emphasized that the foundation works with local partners to treat and prevent avoidable blindness and to establish sustainable infrastructure that empowers local teams to preserve sight within their communities. Alrashood expressed hope that the programme will attract greater local support from the people and government of Oyo state.
He noted that millions of people worldwide lose their sight because affordable eye care services remain inaccessible, particularly among vulnerable and underserved populations. The foundation's mission is to reduce this burden through targeted interventions and partnerships.
Oyo Government Cites Public Health Challenge
In her remarks, the Oyo state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, described the opening of the hospital as a strategic intervention at a time when visual impairment remains a significant public health concern. She stated that the commissioning of the facility is both timely and strategic, given that visual impairment and blindness continue to pose significant challenges with profound implications for education, productivity, social inclusion, and economic development.
According to her, the facility will enhance the state's capacity to diagnose and treat eye diseases while strengthening specialized healthcare services. She added that the Albasar International Foundation Makkah Specialist Eye Hospital will strengthen the capacity of the health system to provide advanced ophthalmic services, promote early diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, and support efforts to reduce the burden of avoidable blindness. The commissioner also noted that the hospital could evolve into a regional hub for eye care training, research, and specialized medical services.
Olubadan Recalls Foundation's Previous Interventions
Also speaking at the event, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, welcomed the establishment of the hospital and recalled previous healthcare interventions by the organization in the state. He noted that during his tenure as governor of Oyo state in 2004 or 2005, the foundation provided healthcare services to residents, including performing more than five operations during a two-week period.
The Olubadan emphasized that the impact of the foundation extends beyond statistics, bringing joy to countless individuals and their families. He stated that what matters most is the positive change brought to people's lives, and he commended the foundation for its continued efforts.
Makinde's Representative Urges Professionalism
Representing Governor Seyi Makinde, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, urged healthcare workers at the facility to prioritize professionalism and compassionate service. He emphasized that beyond medical expertise, patients seek empathy, reassurance, and dignity. He called on the medical personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, compassion, and ethical conduct, making the eye clinic a center of excellence where every patient is treated with care and humanity.
Babatunde also stressed the importance of preventive healthcare, stating that infrastructure alone is not enough to solve eye health challenges. He advocated for continued health education, regular eye examinations, and healthy lifestyles that support good vision. He noted that prevention is one of the most effective tools in preserving sight and reducing the burden of avoidable blindness.
He further remarked that the facility symbolizes more than healthcare; it symbolizes opportunity. It will enable children to learn better, adults to work more effectively, and senior citizens to enjoy a quality life. In essence, it will help many people see not only with their eyes but with renewed hope and confidence.
Free Eye Care Programme Begins
The Olubadan formally commissioned the facility and interacted with residents who attended the event as beneficiaries of an ongoing free eye care outreach programme. The free eye care services are scheduled to run from June 7 to June 15, 2026. The foundation also presented awards to donors and partners during the ceremony.
A tour of the hospital revealed that it is equipped with specialized diagnostic and treatment equipment, including ocular ultrasound machines, ophthalmoscopes, and an optical dispensary designed to support advanced ophthalmic care. This infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance the quality of eye care services available in the region.
Experts Say Over 1 Million Nigerians Are Blind
An estimated 1.13 million people in Nigeria are living with blindness. This figure was disclosed during the launch of an appeal fund by Lions Clubs International District 404 for the construction of a world-class N3.5 billion Eye Care Hospital, Diabetes and Cancer Research Centre in Abuja. According to the project director, Dr. Lanre Adebayo, about 4.25 million Nigerian adults are partially blind. He explained that cataract and glaucoma remain the leading causes of blindness in the country, according to experts.
The commissioning of the Makkah Specialist Eye Hospital represents a significant step toward addressing these challenges and improving eye health outcomes in Oyo state and beyond.
