Sterling Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), in partnership with Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), has successfully conducted 113 free cataract surgeries at the Central Hospital Kwale, Delta State.
The initiative, part of the Sustainable Primary Eye Care Services (SPECS) Programme, addressed one of Nigeria’s leading causes of blindness—cataracts, which account for 44% of cases nationwide. In Delta State alone, untreated cataracts affect over 25,000 residents.
The outreach included patient screenings across Ndokwa East and Ndokwa West, transportation to the Cataract Surgery Unit, and surgeries performed by certified ophthalmologists. Beneficiaries received medications, protective eye shields, and follow-up care. In addition, 87 health workers were trained, and over 2,400 people were screened during 62 community camps, strengthening local healthcare delivery.
Community members described the programme as life-changing, with many elderly residents regaining their sight and independence. VCDF’s Programmes Manager, Philip Ukemezia, emphasized that the initiative reflects SEEPCO’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable healthcare, noting that over 11,000 people have been screened and more than 1,000 surgeries completed across Akwa Ibom and Delta States.
This milestone has been widely covered by the media, including Guardian, Vanguard, Punch, and Energy Focus Report and others, underscoring the impact of SEEPCO and VCDF’s partnership in delivering accessible eye health services to underserved communities.