PRESS RELEASE 3 (GENERIC COMBINED)

 

Ibadan, Oyo State | June 9, 2026

Oyo State today played host to two landmark initiatives set to transform eye health services in Nigeria—the launch of the SightQuest Project and the inauguration of the HelpMeSee Simulation-Based Cataract Surgery Training Centre.

The day’s events began with the launch of the SightQuest Project at the Signature Tower Hotel, where stakeholders gathered to mark a new phase in expanding access to eye care services across the state. The project, led by Eleta Eye Institute in collaboration with Al-Basar International Foundation and supported by CBM, aims to improve eye care delivery and reduce avoidable blindness.

Presentations during the launch outlined the project’s scope and expected impact, along with broader efforts under the CBM SightQuest Nigeria Programme to strengthen eye health systems nationwide.

The programme continued at the Eleta Eye Institute with the official inauguration of the HelpMeSee Simulation-Based Cataract Surgery Training Centre—Nigeria’s first simulation-based training facility for cataract surgery.

Developed through a partnership between HelpMeSee, Eleta Eye Institute, and CBM, the centre is designed to enhance surgical training using advanced simulation technology, enabling ophthalmologists to build skills in a safe, controlled environment.

The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Oyo State, who served as Special Guest of Honour at both events, commended the initiatives as critical interventions that align with the state’s health priorities.

Together, these initiatives represent a comprehensive approach to tackling avoidable blindness—combining service delivery expansion with capacity building for healthcare providers.

Stakeholders expressed confidence that the integration of innovative training solutions and community-focused programming will significantly improve eye health outcomes for thousands of Nigerians.

Name: Adamani, Enan

Title: Programme Director, Inclusive Health Programmes

Email Address: Enan.Adamani@cbm.org