Yemisi Izuora
The Vision First initiative of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) has sustained its medical outreach efforts across Nigeria with more than 10,000 people benefitting from the programme since its inception in 2022.
The latest outreach holds this week in Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State.
“Vision First is more than an outreach programme—it is a promise. A promise that quality healthcare should not be limited by geography, income, or circumstance,” SNEPCo Managing Director Ronald Adams said in an address read by General Manager Corporate Relations, Abubakar Ahmed at the opening ceremony yesterday.
Vision First which is part of the Health-in-Motion programme of NNPC/SNEPCo, takes eyecare to underserved communities, with the health team also providing cardiovascular screening, consultations and treatment for mild and chronic illnesses, laboratory tests and pharmaceutical services and distributing insecticide-treated nets.
Hundreds of people in Badagry and from adjoining communities are attending the 6thedition of Vision First which is being hosted in collaboration with Kolmarg Eyesight Foundation, the Lagos State Ministry of Health, and Badagry Local Government Council.
Ron said: “As we celebrate the impact of this outreach, let us remember that behind every consultation, every treatment, and every pair of glasses provided is a human story. It is a mother who can care for her family with confidence, a father who can continue to provide, a student who can see clearly in the classroom, and a child whose future has become a little brighter.”
Chief Upstream Investment Officer, NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Olanarenwaju Igandan said in remarks delivered by Advisor, Community Relations Mr. Usman Mohammed Bello: “I urge parents, elders, workers, traders, teachers and all residents to participate actively and encourage others to do the same. Early detection and treatment of health conditions can significantly improve quality of life and prevent avoidable complications.”
Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, District 5, Dr Asiyanbi Oladapo and Chairman Badagry Local Government Council Babatunde Hunpe commended NNPC and SNEPCo for their longstanding support for the programme. Executive Director Kolmarg Eyesight Foundation, implementing partner of Vision First, Prof. Olukorede Adenuga advised the people to take advantage of the outreach as “a simple intervention can make a profound difference.”
Supported by NNPC and co-venturers, SNEPCo has implemented social investment projects across Nigeria in health, education, and human capital development among others, since its establishment in 1993. The company continues to power progress in Nigeria by efficiently producing oil and gas in deepwater, developing human capital, promoting Nigerian content, and improving lives.