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Tucked away in the serene town of Asaga Ohafia in Abia State, Nigeria, lies the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, a beacon of hope for rural communities. Established on February 2, 2016, by Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai and his wife, Dr. Philomena, the Eye Centre has revolutionised eye care in the region, offering clinical, surgical, and optical services to those who previously had limited access.

Guided by Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai’s profound belief that “a giver will always find favour with God and man,” the Eye Centre was purposefully designed to serve over 80 rural communities across six local government areas spanning three states. According to Dr. Anya Kalu, Consultant Ophthalmologist & Phaco Surgeon, “We were built with a clear mandate: to deliver quality, accessible, and affordable eye care with zero tolerance for error.”

This commitment to excellence has earned the facility a reputation for excellence, conferring upon the King of Kings Specialist Hospital the true status of a specialist medical institution. In 2021, Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai and his wife undertook a remarkable upgrade of the Eye Centre, equipping it with advanced technology for phacoemulsification cataract surgery, commonly referred to as “laser cataract surgery.”

This cutting-edge technique, rarely available in rural settings, underscores the centre’s commitment to providing world-class care. “Everyone wants quality,” says Dr. Kalu. “We are very grateful to Reverend and Mrs. Uma Ukpai for this gift of sight to humanity.” The Uma Ukpai Eye Centre is now one of only three facilities in Abia State capable of performing regular phacoemulsification cataract surgery.

Beyond patient care, the Eye Centre is positioning itself as a hub for community ophthalmology training, partnering with higher institutions to groom the next generation of eye care professionals. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the centre’s impact will extend far beyond its immediate service area, creating a ripple effect of improved healthcare across Nigeria.

The King of Kings Specialist Hospital, which houses the Eye Centre, has been serving the community since its establishment in 1999. Offering 24-hour services across multiple specialities, the hospital embodies the mission of the Uma Ukpai Evangelical Association: to care for the body while trusting God to heal the soul.

As Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai celebrates his 80th birthday, the gratitude of the communities he has served resonates deeply. Through his vision, countless individuals have regained their sight, their dignity, and their hope. The Uma Ukpai Eye Centre is more than a healthcare facility; it is a symbol of what is possible when faith, compassion, and innovation converge.

For the rural communities it serves, it is a beacon of light in every sense of the word. And from all indications, the journey of the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre and the King of Kings Specialist Hospital is far from over. With continued support and innovation, they remain poised to expand their impact, setting a benchmark for rural healthcare not only in Nigeria but across Africa.

 “A river that does not flow out cannot produce good water,” Dr. Kalu posited. “Thanks to Reverend and Mrs. Uma Ukpai, this river of compassion continues to flow, enriching the lives of all who encounter it.”

As the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre continues to illuminate healthcare in rural Nigeria, its impact extends far beyond the communities it serves. It stands as a testament to the power of visionary leadership, compassion, and innovation in transforming lives and communities.

Reflecting on the sacrifices made by Reverend and Mrs. Uma Ukpai, Dr. Kalu said, “We may not know what sacrifices you have made, but God sees your labour of love and will reward you.” The Uma Ukpai Eye Centre is a shining example of the impact that can be made when individuals and organisations come together to serve humanity.

As Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai celebrates his 80th birthday, the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre remains a beacon of hope for rural communities, a symbol of the transformative power of compassion and innovation. Its legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, a testament to the enduring impact of one man’s vision and commitment to serving humanity.

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