In A heartwarming display of international solidarity, Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has launched a transformative eye care program in Lagos, Nigeria, dubbed “Saudi Noor.”

The initiative aims to bridge the healthcare gap and restore sight to thousands by providing free diagnostic screenings, cataract surgeries, and eyeglasses.

From May 20th to 27th, 2025, Gbagada General Hospital became a beacon of hope for those suffering from preventable blindness. The facility served as a dedicated center where doctors and volunteers offered vital services, changing lives one eye at a time.

This lifesaving effort is part of a broader campaign led by Saudi leaders, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, who have prioritized health initiatives worldwide. “Our goal is to reach even the most vulnerable, tackling preventable blindness head-on,” said Mohammed Alsahabi, Saudi Press Attaché in Nigeria. “Since 2019, KSrelief’s blindness prevention campaign has examined over 218,000 eyes and helped more than 21,000 regain their sight.”

As Mohammed Alsahabi emphasizes, “Our efforts reflect a growing recognition of the importance of urban healthcare outreach. We are committed to bridging gaps, bringing vital eye care where it’s needed most.”

“Since launching its blindness prevention campaign in Nigeria in 2019, KSrelief has conducted over 218,000 eye examination, more than 21,000 patients have regained their sight through surgical interventions and over 45,000 eyeglasses have been distributed – transforming lives and restoring hope across several Nigerian states. Most recently, the program has been implemented in Yobe, Kano, and Bauchi States, bringing relief to thousands of the northern regions.

“KSrelief”s efforts in Lagos signify a growing recognition of the urban-rural healthcare divide and the need to address eye health challenges even within densely populated city centers. Gbagada General Hospital, a major referral facility in Lagos, now becomes a vital hub for this life-changing outreach.

Globally, KSrelief has remained steadfast in its commitment to human excellence. Since its establishment in 2015, the Center has executed over 3400 relief projects in more than 107 countries. “Its blindness prevention initiatives continue to operate in countries such as Sudan, Yemen, Bangladsh, and Mauritania.

Beneficiaries speak

The impact resonates deeply among beneficiaries. Adebeshin Idowu, a civil servant, shared his gratitude: “I was diagnosed with a condition that needed N1.5 million for surgery. I couldn’t afford it, but now, thanks to KSrelief, I’ve had the operation done, and I am very happy. May God continue to bless them.” His words reflect the profound change this intervention brought to his life.

Similarly, retiree Isa Imam from Owode Ibeshe expressed heartfelt appreciation: “I was referred to this program after being told I needed N250,000 for surgery. This gesture has saved me from potential blindness. I pray for their continued success.” His relief is palpable—a testament to the program’s life-altering power.

Also, Mrs. Patience Olaniyan, a christian, shared a similar experience. Her vision had been deteriorating gradually. When the Saudi embassy’s program came, she seized the opportunity for an eye test, where she was told surgery was necessary. According to her, “the cataract operation was seamless, thank you Saudi Embassy. I was thinking of how to get the money to go and do the operation in a hospital.”
Another beneficiary, Demola Olayiwola, said he learned about the program through a radio commercial. Having had one eye operated on previously, he seized the opportunity, approached the officials and was attended to. “They are good fellows. They have saved me a great deal. May God bless the Saudi Embassy,” she said.

The initiative’s success in Lagos mirrors the global efforts of KSrelief, which has executed over 3,400 relief projects across more than 107 countries since 2015. Its work extends to nations like Yemen, Sudan, Bangladesh, and Mauritania, consistently demonstrating a steadfast dedication to human dignity and health.

With Lagos now joining the roster of cities benefiting from this noble cause, Saudi Arabia reinforces its commitment to humanitarian principles and its partnership with Nigeria in fighting preventable blindness. Gbagada General Hospital stands as a symbol of hope—a hub where lives are restored and futures are brightened.