Optometrist Oranuka Raises Alarm Over Preventable Blindness, Offers Free Eye Tests in Anambra

By Mary Obi

AWKA — “Many people wait until their vision begins to fail before seeking professional help. By then, some eye conditions may have already caused irreversible damage.”

This was the warning issued by the Chief Optometrist and Chief Executive Officer of COV-OPTICS Eye Hospital, Awka, Dr Chikodi Oranuka, as he urged Nigerians to embrace regular eye screening and increased public awareness to tackle preventable visual impairment and blindness.

Oranuka, an ocular investigative expert, made the call during the unveiling of COV-OPTICS Eye Hospital’s new South-East headquarters at Okpuno, Awka, Anambra State.

The eye-care specialist also announced a two-week free eye-test programme for residents of Awka and surrounding communities, describing early detection as one of the most effective ways of preventing avoidable loss of vision.

“Regular eye examinations should be part of routine healthcare, even when a person is not experiencing obvious symptoms,” Oranuka said.

“Poor awareness, poverty and delays in seeking professional eye care remain major factors contributing to the burden of eye-related conditions. Early detection and prompt intervention can make a significant difference.”

He urged members of the public to take advantage of the free eye-test initiative and prioritise routine eye examinations.

According to him, a comprehensive eye examination at the facility costs as little as ₦10,000, excluding prescription glasses and other specialised services.

Oranuka noted that regular screening and early intervention could significantly reduce cases of avoidable blindness, stressing that many serious eye conditions, including glaucoma, may develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages.

Modern Equipment, Expanded Services

The optometrist said the new COV-OPTICS facility is equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment equipment to support the management of various eye conditions.

The equipment includes an autorefractometer, non-contact tonometer, pachymeter, visual field analyser, slit lamp, optical coherence tomography (OCT) equipment and an advanced operating microscope.

He said the hospital provides comprehensive eye-care services for both adults and children, including the diagnosis and management of glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic eye disease.

Other services include paediatric eye care, vision screening, preventive eye-care services, prescription glasses and contact-lens fitting.

“Our goal is not only to treat eye problems but also to help people prevent them through early screening, education and timely intervention,” he said.

Foundation to Support Vulnerable Patients

Recognising the financial barriers that prevent many Nigerians from accessing quality healthcare, Oranuka said the hospital established the Cove Eye Care Foundation to support vulnerable and financially disadvantaged patients.

According to him, patients experiencing financial difficulties can access consultations, tests and certain procedures at subsidised rates, with some services costing less than ₦25,000.

He called for stronger collaboration among the Federal Government, the Anambra State Government, healthcare professionals, corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals to expand access to affordable and quality eye care.

“Protecting the eyesight of our people should be a collective responsibility,” he said. “Government, healthcare providers, private organisations and individuals all have important roles to play in ensuring that quality eye care is accessible to everyone.”

A Vision Inspired by His Father

Oranuka, who holds a Doctor of Optometry degree and a master’s degree in Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences Research from the United Kingdom, said COV-OPTICS had operated in Anambra State for about four years from a rented facility before moving into its new permanent establishment.

He dedicated the new facility to the memory of his late father, Chief Christopher Sunday Oranuka, whom he credited with supporting his education and inspiring his commitment to service and humanity.

The unveiling attracted government officials, health professionals, religious leaders, patients, community members and journalists.

Oranuka also commended Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for his administration’s focus on healthcare development.

Participants at the event equally praised COV-OPTICS Eye Hospital for its efforts to expand access to professional eye care, particularly among vulnerable and less-privileged members of society.

With the launch of its new South-East headquarters and the introduction of free eye tests, COV-OPTICS is positioning itself to play a broader role in addressing the growing challenge of preventable visual impairment in Anambra State and beyond.

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