Uma Ukpai Eye Center, in its commitment to improving healthcare in Nigeria, has performed a total of 529 eye surgeries to those who previously lacked access to quality and affordable medical treatment since its inception on February 2, 2016.
The facility, a medical arm of the Uma Ukpai Evangelical Association founded by Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, has become a beacon of hope for underserved populations in six local government areas in three neighboring states, spanning approximately 80 and 120 rural communities.
Dr Anya Kalu, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, in a statement that also announced the 80th birthday of Rev Dr Uma Ukpai stated that eye surgeries have had a transformative impact on many underserved populations requiring essential care services. ophthalmological.
He stated: “The surgeries performed at our center have changed lives. “Many patients have regained their sight and can now lead a normal life, which was once a distant dream for them.”
According to Dr. Kalu, the Eye Center has effectively closed the gap in healthcare, ensuring that people who would otherwise go blind due to untreated conditions can access timely and effective treatment.
“The center has earned recognition for its commitment to providing high-quality eye care, including advanced procedures such as phacoemulsification cataract surgery, commonly known as 'laser cataract surgery,'” he said.
The statement indicates that Rev. (Dr.) Ukpai's journey into healthcare is deeply rooted in his personal experiences. After losing his father at a young age, he developed a deep empathy for those facing hardship. This empathy has fueled her commitment to serving marginalized communities both spiritually and physically.
In a comment, Rev. (Dr.) Ukpai said: “I know what it means to lose a parent and become a parent at a tender age. “I learned early in life that the stone Satan throws at you can become your stepping stone to a life of abundance.”
In addition to his healthcare initiatives, Rev. Dr. Ukpai's dual role as pastor and healthcare provider illustrates the powerful intersection of faith and service, remembering that with dedication and vision, a healthier future can be created for all.
He founded the Rey de Reyes Specialist Hospital in 1999, which has become a vital healthcare institution in the region, offering a wide range of medical services, including internal medicine, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, and specialized eye care. . He focused on providing high-quality care to his patients.
Since its inception, the center has not only performed surgeries but has also served as a training ground for healthcare professionals, improving the overall quality of care in the region. By integrating community health training into its mission, the Eye Center ensures that knowledge and skills are shared among healthcare workers, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.