A volunteer medical team from the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) has launched a specialized ophthalmology outreach programme in Yobe State, northeastern Nigeria, as part of its broader medical mission in the country.
The initiative, known as the “Saudi Noor” medical outreach, commenced on Monday and is focused on delivering vital eye care services to underserved communities in the region. According to a statement from the Saudi Embassy in Abuja, the programme specifically targets individuals suffering from visual impairments.
As part of the outreach, the medical team is conducting diagnostic eye exams, cataract surgeries with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, treating refractive errors, and distributing prescription eyeglasses. The goal is to combat preventable blindness in Yobe and improve health outcomes among vulnerable populations.
Since launching its blindness prevention campaign in Nigeria in October 2019, KSrelief has screened over 218,000 individuals, performed more than 21,000 eye surgeries, and distributed over 45,000 pairs of corrective glasses.
“These interventions have led to significant improvements in vision and quality of life for thousands of Nigerians, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas where access to specialized eye care is minimal,” the Saudi Embassy stated.
In 2024 alone, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through KSrelief, allocated $47 million to support 98 humanitarian projects across Nigeria. These initiatives span multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, displacement support, and community empowerment.
One notable project, carried out in partnership with the Abubakr A-Sidiq Philanthropic Home, took place in Kwara State and included the distribution of essential supplies and educational materials. Beneficiaries received 10 tons of food, 1,000 textbooks, 5,000 exercise books, and 50 laptops. Additionally, 150 youths were enrolled in vocational training programmes aimed at fostering economic independence.
These efforts reflect Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian development and support for vulnerable populations across Nigeria.
