"Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Champions Eye Care Reform in Nigeria"

"Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Champions Eye Care Reform in Nigeria"

In a bold move to improve access to eye care services in Nigeria, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu C.O.N, is spearheading legislative efforts to address the challenges facing the country's healthcare system. This initiative is particularly timely, as the world observes World Sight Day on the second Thursday of October, with this year's theme being 'Children, Love Your Eyes' ¹.

Rt Hon. Kalu's commitment to eye health is deeply personal, driven by the alarming statistics that 24 million Nigerians live with vision loss, while 1.3 million are blind . Recognizing the federal government's initiatives, he emphasizes the parliament's crucial role in tackling healthcare challenges. To this end, he has sponsored two amendment bills: the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Council Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill and the National Eye Centre Act (Amendment) Bill ¹.

These bills, which have passed the first reading, aim to enhance efficiency and expand access to eye care delivery in Nigeria. However, Rt Hon. Kalu acknowledges that legislative efforts alone are insufficient. He calls for a collaborative effort from stakeholders in the healthcare sector to address this crisis .

Key Initiatives:

- Free Eye Care Outreach:  Rt Hon. Kalu recently organized an outreach program in Bende, providing thousands of indigenes with free eye examinations, treatment, surgery, and glasses prescriptions .

- Legislative Reforms: The sponsored bills aim to improve eye care delivery and address challenges in the healthcare system ¹.

- Healthcare for All: This initiative aligns with the 10th House of Representatives' agenda, under Speaker Tajudeen Abbas .

Rt Hon. Kalu's dedication to eye health is unwavering, having championed eye wellness through outreach programs and legislative instruments for years. As Deputy Speaker, he remains resolute in ensuring every Nigerian has access to quality eye care . By working together with stakeholders, he is confident that Nigeria can achieve a healthier and better future.

In another development, Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu has been instrumental in establishing the South East Development Commission (SEDC), a long-awaited initiative aimed at addressing the region's unique challenges . This demonstrates his commitment to regional development and the well-being of Nigerians.