…Over 22,000 Lives Touched, 726 Eye Surgeries Completed Since Inception
Some beneficiaries of the Seplat/NNPCL JV Eye Can See Initiative with representatives from Seplat Energy, NNPCL, Imo State Government, after successful eye surgery held in Owerri, Imo State recently.
Strengthening its commitment to sustainable community health, Seplat Energy, in collaboration with its Joint Venture partner, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has launched the 2025 edition of its renowned healthcare initiative, ‘Eye Can See’, in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
The flag-off event, held at the Full Moon Hotel, Owerri, saw thousands of underserved residents receiving free eye care services, including vision screenings, cataract surgeries, and prescription glasses—marking another major stride in Seplat Energy’s mission to drive impactful social investments aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3: “Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.”
Ibi-Ada Itotoi, Managing Director, Seplat East Onshore Limited, represented by Emmanuel Otokhine, Base Manager, Eastern Asset, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to deepening access to healthcare.
“The ‘Eye Can See’ programme reflects Seplat Energy’s unwavering belief that business success is incomplete without meaningful, enduring contributions to the lives and well-being of the communities we serve,” she emphasized.
Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs & Social Performance at Seplat Energy, noted during her remarks that since its inception in 2012, the initiative has:
- Provided free, comprehensive eye care to over 22,084 patients
- Conducted 726 transformative cataract surgeries
- Distributed 12,307 prescription glasses to individuals in need
“This is more than healthcare; it’s about restoring dignity, enabling productivity, and rekindling hope for thousands of families,” Afe stated.
Beyond medical services, beneficiaries also received educational materials promoting preventive eye health practices and early detection of visual impairments, fostering a broader culture of wellness across the communities.
Representing the Chief Upstream Investment Officer, NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Mrs. Wilson Halimat commended the programme, stating, “Our sustainability efforts aim to touch lives meaningfully, and this initiative is a strong demonstration of our vision to create healthier, stronger communities.”
The Honourable Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Gas Development in Imo State, Emeka Mgbudem, praised Seplat Energy and NNPCL, describing their efforts as “changing the narrative from charity to genuine impact.”
“This initiative is a direct investment in our people’s health and future,” he added.
The Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Austin Okeji, and the Chairman of the Imo House of Assembly Committee on Oil and Gas, Mr. Francis Osuoha, both pledged continued collaboration with Seplat Energy and NNPCL, hailing the programme as a model of corporate partnership with public health goals.
For beneficiaries like Mrs. Veronica Okereke, 73, from Mbaitoli, and Mr. Charles Njoku, who underwent successful cataract surgery, the initiative brought not just restored vision but a renewed sense of independence and joy.
“Seplat has given me my sight and life back,” Okereke said tearfully, while Njoku expressed gratitude for the opportunity to see clearly again.
More than a health programme, the ‘Eye Can See’ initiative rejuvenates livelihoods—enabling beneficiaries to return to work, school, and family life, free from the burden of untreated vision problems.
As Seplat Energy and NNPCL expand their commitment to social responsibility, ‘Eye Can See’ stands as a shining example of corporate social investment that delivers measurable, lasting benefits in the face of healthcare challenges across Nigeria.
Stay informed, Stay ahead with The Ameh News
Discover more from Ameh News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
