By Danjuma Amodu | February 10, 2026
Jigibola 2.0 is a presidential initiative launched in October 2023 to address the growing need for accessible eye health services in Nigeria.
The programme aims to provide free eye screening, medications, and prescribed eye glasses to correct refractive errors errors, particularly presbyopia, to 5 million Nigerians aged 40 years and above. Implemented by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare through the Eye, Ear and Sensory Functions Programme (NESHP) and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Jigibola 2.0 strengthens Nigeria’s primary healthcare system, promotes gender equity in health access, and reduces health inequities.
Key Achievements:
- Over 1.5 million Nigerians screened for presbyopia
- 1.4 million free reading glasses dispensed
- 65% of beneficiaries received their first-ever pair of glasses
- 53% of recipients are women, promoting gender equity in health access
- 2,216 primary healthcare workers trained in Primary Eye Care
- 811 PHC facilities activated to deliver primary eye care
Expanding The Frontiers
The programme will expand to 8 additional states in 2026, delivering another 1 million reading glasses. Partnerships with organisations like the Nigerian Optometrists Association and VisionSpring Nigeria will enable outreach in programme and non-programme states.
Impact on Lives
Beneficiaries report improved productivity and livelihood, with some regaining confidence in their work. Mr. A.G., a mechanic, said reading glasses helped him “repair machines faster and grow his business.” Alhaja Munirat in Kwara exclaimed, “Inability to read my Quran separated me from my faith, now I can read easily, this is amazing.”
Strong Partnerships
Jigibola 2.0 is a testament to the power of collaboration, with support from organisations like the Clinton Health Access Initiative, Livelihood Impact Fund, and Onesight Essilor Luxottica Foundation. The programme has also attracted additional investments in eye health, including a €15 million Christian Blind Missions International programme and a $15 million Bloomberg Focus on Clear Vision School Eye Health Programme.
Looking Ahead
The programme aims to establish 4 additional vision centres, provide 25,000 free cataract surgeries, and integrate Primary Eye Care services into routine PHC delivery. With continued support, Jigibola 2.0 will restore sight, enhance human dignity, and amplify economic opportunities for Nigerians.
Appreciation
The programme acknowledges the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and implementing partners, including the Clinton Health Access Initiative, Livelihood Impact Fund, and Onesight Essilor Luxottica Foundation.
Testimonies
“Reading glasses helped me repair machines faster and grow my business.” – Mr. A.G., a mechanic in Delta State
“Inability to read my Quran separated me from my faith, now I can read easily, this is amazing.” – Alhaja Munirat, Kwara State
“It restored confidence in my work.” – Mrs. M.I., a pharmacist
Conclusion
Jigibola 2.0 is a shining example of what can be achieved when government, partners, and communities come together to address a pressing health need. As the programme continues to expand and reach more Nigerians, it is clear that the impact will be felt for generations to come. With peace and plenty, Nigeria shall be blessed.
