NNPC/Seplat JV’s “Eye Can See” Programme Restores Vision and Hope in Imo: A Beacon of Corporate Social Responsibility
In a heartwarming demonstration of corporate social responsibility, the NNPC Ltd/Seplat Energy Joint Venture (JV) recently brought hope and vision back to the people of Ohaji/Egbema, a community in Imo State, through their ongoing “Eye Can See” medical outreach programme. This initiative is designed to provide free eye health services to individuals, particularly in underserved areas, who are suffering from visual impairments.
Over the years, many in rural communities like Ohaji/Egbema have faced immense challenges in accessing quality healthcare, particularly for conditions that lead to blindness, such as cataracts. The “Eye Can See” programme addresses this gap by offering free eye screenings, surgeries, and the distribution of much-needed reading glasses. Since its inception in 2017, the programme has positively impacted over 20,000 people, with more than 10,000 reading glasses provided and an impressive 639 eye surgeries, including cataract removals, performed in this latest outreach alone.
During the event, Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC’s Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Bala Wunti, represented by Dr. Obinna Otuu, emphasized the broader purpose of this initiative. He said, “NNPC Ltd is committed not just to extracting energy resources, but to enriching lives. We believe that corporations, especially those operating in the energy sector, have a duty to improve the communities that host us.” This statement reflects the importance the corporation places on sustainable development and its intention to serve as more than an energy provider.
According to Wunti, the “Eye Can See” programme goes beyond just providing immediate relief. It also plays a vital role in health education, raising awareness about the dangers of conditions like hypertension and diabetes that can lead to permanent vision loss. This combination of care and education underscores the holistic approach NNPC Ltd and Seplat are adopting in their CSR efforts.
The success of the programme is due in no small part to the collaboration with local authorities, medical professionals, and community leaders. Wunti acknowledged the critical role these stakeholders play in facilitating the outreach, stating, “Our partnership with Seplat and the support we receive from the local community allows us to bring life-changing services to those who need them most. Together, we are restoring vision, but more importantly, we are restoring hope.”
For many of the beneficiaries, the impact of the programme is immeasurable. Individuals who had been living with compromised vision for years are now able to regain their independence and quality of life. By addressing such a crucial aspect of healthcare, the NNPC/Seplat JV is ensuring that its host communities are not left behind in terms of medical care and support. In doing so, the programme is not just restoring sight but empowering individuals to return to work, school, and active participation in society.
Furthermore, the programme highlights the important role that corporate entities can play in bridging gaps in healthcare. By delivering free medical services to those who might not otherwise have access, the “Eye Can See” initiative exemplifies how the private sector can complement governmental efforts in achieving national health goals.
The success of the programme has encouraged the NNPC/Seplat JV to explore ways to expand the initiative. The aim is to reach more communities and extend the scope of services, potentially including other medical interventions beyond eye care in the future. “This is just the beginning,” said Wunti, expressing optimism for the future of the programme. “We are committed to continuing this journey, ensuring that more lives are touched and transformed.”
The “Eye Can See” programme has become a symbol of hope, showing that with collaboration, commitment, and care, even the most entrenched health challenges can be overcome. It stands as a testament to NNPC and Seplat’s dedication to making meaningful, lasting impacts on their host communities, going beyond profit margins to focus on people and their well-being.
