The Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON, implores the United Arab Emirates and The Noor Dubai Foundation to continue facilitating more humanitarian development to Katsina State.
The Governor met with Salem Saeed Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, and Dr. Manal Tartan, CEO of The Noor Dubai Foundation, to discuss the transformative impact of their collaboration on eye care services across Katsina State.
In his remarks, Governor Radda revealed that the US$1.5 million initiative has yielded noticeable results, “Our partnership with The Noor Dubai Foundation has been nothing short of revolutionary,” stated Governor Radda.
“We’ve conducted 11,873 cataract surgeries, with over half of the beneficiaries being women, demonstrating our commitment to inclusive healthcare.”
The Governor further elaborated on the programme’s extensive reach, noting that 22,381 individuals have received screening and treatment for various eye conditions. The school outreach programme has been particularly impactful, reaching 281,103 pupils, with girls comprising 49% of those screened.
Beyond direct patient care, the collaboration has fostered substantial advancements in medical education and infrastructure. Three students are currently pursuing Optometry studies in India, while 12 nurses have received specialized training in refraction.
The partnership has also facilitated the complete renovation of the Katsina Eye Center and eye clinics in Funtua and Daura general hospitals.
“Our healthcare landscape has been transformed,” Governor Radda emphasized. “We’ve renovated and equipped 12 general hospital eye units and provided 250 primary health centres with essential eye care tools.”
The Governor also highlighted the initiative’s contribution to medical research, with nine scientific articles published in peer-reviewed journals, further solidifying Katsina State’s position in the global medical community.
The Foundation expanded its partnership to the Safe Space Humanitarian Initiative (SASHI) Chairs by the First Lady of Katsina State, Dr. Hajiya Zulaihat Dikko Radda through her pet project.
The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Salem Saeed Al Shamsi, expressed his sincere appreciation for Governor Radda’s visit and reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in addressing humanitarian and poverty challenges, with a particular focus on healthcare development.
“The UAE values its partnership with Nigeria and its states,” Ambassador Al Shamsi stated.
“We are committed to continuing our support in tackling the pressing issues facing your communities, especially in the realm of healthcare.”
Dr. Manal Tartan, CEO of The Noor Dubai Foundation, pointed out the organization’s extensive work in humanitarian interventions, with a special emphasis on eye treatment.
“Katsina State holds a special place in our hearts as the first beneficiary of this initiative,” Dr. Tartan remarked.
“We are delighted with the progress made and remain steadfast in our commitment to support the state’s eye care needs.”
Demonstrating the spirit of hospitality which Katsina State exemplifies, Governor Radda declared the state readiness to allocate land for the establishment of a specialist eye center in Katsina State courtesy of The Noor Dubai Foundation.
“This centre will not only serve the people of Nigeria but has the potential to become a hub for health tourism across the West African sub-region,” Governor Radda explained.
Mallam Ismail Abdullahi Ibrahim, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Affairs, in his vote of thanks, stated,. “Governor Radda’s decision to embark on this crucial mission on such short notice demonstrates his commitment to people’s wellbeing and visionary leadership.” It is a testament to his dedication to improving the lives of Katsina State residents,” he added.
This courtesy visit to the UAE Embassy in Nigeria not only celebrates the achievements of the existing partnership but also paves the way for future collaborations. The continued support from the UAE and The Noor Dubai Foundation promises to enhance healthcare services in Katsina State.
