The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Ogun 1 Area Command, Idiroko, has sponsored free eye care programme for its officers and men of the command.
The Command’s spokesman, Mr Chado Zakari, disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen on Tuesday in Idiroko.
Zakari explained that as part of ongoing initiatives to prioritize personnel health and enhance operational efficiency, the Acting Area Comptroller of the command, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, has sponsored a comprehensive free eye care programme for officers and men of the command.
The spokesman said that the health outreach aimed to promote wellness and early detection of visual impairments among officers through specialized ophthalmic services, provided by qualified medical professionals from Vision Spring.
He listed services provided to include Visual Acuity Screening- Testing overall clarity of vision. Fundus copy- Examining the back of the eye, including the retina and optic nerve and providing free prescription glasses to those in need.
Zakari quoted the Comptroller,Afeni, as emphasizing that clear vision is critical to effective border security, tactical enforcement, and administrative duties while declaring the screening exercise opened.
He said that good health remains the foundational pillar of operational efficiency and officers’ well-being.
”Our officers undergo demanding daily tasks ranging from tactical border surveillance and field enforcement to detailed physical examinations and administrative documentation.
”Regular eye screening is a crucial preventative measure that safeguards our officer’s health while maintaining peak command efficiency.
“Good vision is fundamental not only for career performance, but for personal safety, family life, and long-term vitality.
”I encourage all officers, men of the Ogun I Area Command to prioritize their vision and participate actively in routine eye screening exercises. Afeni said.
The Comptroller explained that clear vision directly enhances reaction time, night time vigilance, and accuracy during border patrols and security checks, directly impacting command effectiveness.
He added that constant exposure to harsh environmental conditions on patrol duties put continuous demand on our eyes. Periodic check-ups prevent chronic fatigue and strain.
Taking proactive steps today ensures that we remain sharp, capable, and ready to discharge our national mandate effectively. Protect your vision, it is your most valuable window to the world. He Concluded
Earlier, the safe to be safe (S2S) project, preventing eye care and the team lead Consultant, Dr. Obioma Uchandu said the project is geared towards preventive eye care among Customs officers, whose objective is to eliminate preventable blindness, especially among officers guiding our nations border like Idiroko.
Some of the benefiting officers expressed deep appreciation for the gesture, noting that the initiative directly boosts morale and ensures duty readiness across Ogun I command operations.
He, however,said that the command remains committed to sustaining welfare initiatives that foster a healthy, responsive, and robust workforce. (NAN)
