By Solomon Nwoke

In a bid to improve the poor health and vision of the citizens, two renowned Nigerian medical professionals, Prof. Waziri Erameh and Dr. Emmanuel Ighodaro have raised the sum of N50 million for AutoVision Initiative for its nationwide programme to make smart glasses more accessible, affordable and safe for Nigerians.

The AutoVision Initiative programme that has officially scaled through in Edo State.

Focusing on addressing key public health and lifestyle challenges such as road safety, glaucoma care, and digital eye strain, the AutoVision Initiative is committed to screening 100,000 road users across Nigeria over the next five years.

In partnership with the Donor Community Network and SMOF, the initiative has begun distributing free Smart AI Driving Glasses and conducting eye screenings for car buyers and users across Edo State.

These glasses are equipped with advanced blue lens technology to reduce glare, enhance vision, and offer a smart solution to vision-related road accidents.

At a landmark showcase during the Benin Club Golf Section (BCGS) Captain’s Inaugural Golf Tournament recently concluded in Benin-City, Prof. Erameh made history as the first Nigerian to test-run the rimless smart glasses.

However, Dr. Emmanuel Ighodaro explored a multi-functional version of the glasses, featuring video playback for an immersive golfing experience that helps visualize courses and terrains in real-time blending health, lifestyle, and sports into one transformative tool.

The ₦50 million raised by the two doctors will also be directed toward further research into adopting safer and smarter features tailored to the Nigerian environment.

A key focus will be training Nigerian opticians in advanced smart glasses technology, including the integration of prescription lenses, to ensure the eyewear serves both medical and lifestyle needs for all users.

Both medical leaders are positioned to be the first Nigerians to test future upgrades of the smart glasses before public rollout, underlining their role in shaping the product’s direction and ensuring its suitability for the Nigerian population.

Desmond Bassey, Lead Consultant for the AutoVision Initiative said: “This is more than just eye wear. It’s about helping Nigerians live smarter, drive safer, and see clearer.

“From reducing road accidents and improving glaucoma care to enhancing everyday experiences like golfing, these smart glasses are introducing a new era of vision-driven innovation.”

AutoVision Initiative is also building partnerships with eye clinics, sports organizations, pharmacies, and the automotive sector to create a comprehensive network for delivering smart vision solutions and expand glaucoma care programs nationwide.

As the initiative gains momentum, AutoVision remains committed to developing technology that aligns with everyday Nigerian realities on the road, at work, and on the golf course.