In a significant humanitarian effort, approximately 7,000 vulnerable individuals suffering from various eye conditions have received free surgical operations and medical services in Katsina State. The extensive outreach program was fully sponsored by the Non-Governmental Organization, Mangal Foundation.
Massive Outreach Benefits Cross-Border Communities
Hussaini Kabir, a member of the foundation's Board of Trustees, made the announcement during the final quarter eye surgery exercise for 2025 at the Katsina Eye Centre. Kabir revealed that the 7,000 patients represented the total beneficiaries for the year 2025.
He highlighted that the initiative had a wide-reaching impact, drawing beneficiaries not only from Katsina State but also from neighbouring Nigerian states and from the Republic of Niger. This cross-border appeal underscores the critical need for accessible eye care in the region.
Comprehensive Care From Screening to Recovery
The foundation's process involved a thorough screening exercise that began about two weeks prior to the surgical interventions. During this initial phase, many patients received free medications and medicated eyeglasses.
For those diagnosed with conditions requiring surgical intervention, the foundation provided complete coverage. All costs related to their hospital stay were fully covered, removing the financial barrier to essential healthcare. Kabir noted that around 2,000 patients were screened during this last-quarter exercise alone.
Long-Term Commitment to Alleviating Suffering
Reiterating the foundation's dedication, Kabir described the initiative as a core part of its corporate social responsibility aimed at improving healthcare access. "Our aim is to complement government efforts and ease the healthcare cost burden on the most vulnerable, especially those struggling to meet basic needs," he stated.
The scale of the foundation's work is monumental. Since launching the scheme in 2016, Mangal Foundation has sponsored free surgeries and related services for about 18,000 vulnerable persons.
Beneficiaries Share Stories of Renewed Hope
The human impact of the outreach was voiced by grateful beneficiaries. Yusuf Usman shared that he had endured vision problems for over two years but could never afford the cost of surgery. "For the past two years, I could not see clearly, but today I have undergone the surgery, and I am hopeful my sight will be restored," he said.
Another patient, Aisha Muntari, developed eye issues about a year ago and had nearly lost hope before learning of the foundation's intervention. She expressed strong confidence that her vision would be restored soon.
Both beneficiaries made a heartfelt appeal to other organizations and wealthy individuals across Nigeria to emulate Mangal Foundation's gesture. They urged them to support less privileged persons by providing vital healthcare services that are otherwise unaffordable.
