The Redeemers’ Aids Initiative for People and Community (RAPAC), a charity arm of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has partnered with Clinton Health Access Initiative to offer free eye screenings in Gombe State
The five-day medical outreach held in five communities across four Local Government Areas screened 1,622 residents.
Out of those screened, 1,420 received free reading glasses, while others were referred for further care.
Speaking at the closing event on Monday in Nasarawo community, Gombe LGA, RAPAC Coordinator Mr Jones Oyemade, said the initiative targeted underserved communities to improve access to essential eye care services in the state.
“We planned to screen more than 5,000 individuals, but turnout was slightly lower than expected.
“However, we still have sufficient reading glasses available to support more beneficiaries in upcoming outreach programmes,” Oyemade stated.
Pastor Joshua David, Pastor-in-Charge of RCCG Gombe Province Two, described the programme as a practical expression of God’s love.
He said the inclusive turnout showed people’s real need for accessible eye health support.
“This outreach reflects RCCG’s wider humanitarian vision.
“Our General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, continuously supports hospitals nationwide by donating medical equipment to improve health and well-being across Nigerian communities,” David noted.
Mr Tamka Tammy, Focal Person for the Gombe State Presbyopia Programme under CHAI, said the collaboration with RAPAC had significantly improved access to eye care services for residents of the state.
According to him, 231 healthcare workers were trained across Gombe’s 11 LGAs.
“Each Local Government now hosts seven health facilities equipped to screen and dispense reading glasses to adults aged 40 and above.”
Tammy said that more than 59,000 free reading glasses had been distributed across Gombe State since Dec. 2024.
He said the effort aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s initiative to distribute one million free reading glasses.
He urged residents to utilise eye care support from government and partner organisations.
Tammy also encouraged more stakeholders to contribute to reducing preventable vision problems across communities in Nigeria.
