Katsina: The Mangal Foundation has provided free eye care and surgeries to over 18,000 vulnerable patients since 2016, reaffirming its commitment to improving healthcare access across northern Nigeria.
Board member Mr. Hussaini Kabir disclosed this on Friday at the launch of the foundation’s final-quarter eye surgery exercise for 2025 in Katsina. He said 7,000 beneficiaries were recorded in 2025 alone, spanning Katsina State, neighbouring regions, and parts of the Niger Republic.
Kabir explained that screening for the current round began two weeks ago, with patients receiving free drugs and medicated eyeglasses. He added that those requiring surgery had their hospital stay fully covered, noting that 2,000 people had already been screened.
“Our aim is to complement government efforts and ease healthcare costs for the most vulnerable,” Kabir said.
Ophthalmologist Dr. Ahmad Hamza said many patients were diagnosed with cataracts and glaucoma, stressing that early detection is key to preventing permanent vision loss from silent diseases like glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Beneficiaries shared emotional testimonies. Malam Yusufa Usman, who struggled with vision loss for two years, said, “Today I have undergone surgery, and I am hopeful my sight will be restored.”
Another patient, Aisha Muntari, said she nearly lost hope before learning of the intervention and expressed confidence that her vision would soon improve.
