The short answer
From Funtua the road runs south-east to Zaria and on down the expressway to Kaduna. It is too far to come back and forth comfortably for each visit, so most families plan a two-night stay: arrive and be examined, have the operation the next day, and be checked the morning after before heading home.
See eye doctors in KadunaMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
The route
The Zaria to Funtua road links Funtua to Zaria, where you join the expressway south to Kaduna. Set out in daylight, check current road conditions before you leave, and plan rest stops for an older passenger, who may find a long journey with blurred vision tiring.
A two-night plan
If the surgeon agrees, the examination and the eye measurements can be done on the day you arrive, with surgery the following day. The check the morning after surgery is the one that must not be skipped: it is when early problems are caught. Only after that check should you start the journey back to Funtua.
Diabetes and the eye
Many people who travel from Funtua for eye care have diabetes. If that includes you, ask for a full check of the retina at the same visit as any cataract assessment, and bring your recent blood sugar readings. Diabetic changes at the back of the eye can affect the timing of cataract surgery, and finding them early is far better than finding them late.
Where to be seen in Kaduna on Mezo
Request an eye appointment in Kaduna through Mezo. The care team arranges it with a consultant ophthalmologist and confirms where and when, or you can see an eye doctor by video first.
Common questions
Is it better to go to Zaria, since it is nearer to Funtua?
It is nearer, and Zaria has its own eye services. Some families from Funtua continue to Kaduna because they want a booked date and the same consultant throughout. Either is a reasonable choice.
Can I use my HMO for surgery in Kaduna if I work in Funtua?
Eligible plans can be used wherever the care is on Mezo. The Mezo desk files the prior authorisation with your HMO, so bring your HMO card and staff number.
Should I fast before the trip?
Only if the surgeon tells you to. Most cataract surgery is under local anaesthetic and a light meal is fine. If you have diabetes, ask how to take your medicines on the day so your sugar does not drop on the road.
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Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Diabetic retinopathy. NHS. Patient information.
- Cataract surgery. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 23 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.