The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko, has organised a free eye care programme for its officers and men to promote personnel welfare and enhance operational efficiency.The Public Relations Officer of the command Mr Chado Zakari, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Idiroko, Ogun State.
Zakari said the initiative was sponsored by the Acting Area Comptroller, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, as part of ongoing efforts to prioritise the health and wellbeing of personnel.
He said the outreach, conducted in collaboration with VisionSpring, offered specialised ophthalmic services.
According to him, these include visual acuity screening, fundus examination and free prescription glasses for officers diagnosed with vision challenges.
He said thr programme was aimed at promoting early detection of visual impairments and improving officers’ fitness for duty.
Speaking at the event, Afeni said good eyesight was essential for effective border security, tactical operations and administrative responsibilities.
“Our officers undertake demanding daily tasks ranging from border surveillance and enforcement to physical examinations and documentation.
“Regular eye screening is a preventive measure that safeguards officers’ health while sustaining operational efficiency.
“Good vision is fundamental not only to effective service delivery but also to personal safety, family life and long-term wellbeing,” he said.
The area comptroller urged officers to prioritise routine eye examinations, noting that clear vision enhances reaction time, night-time vigilance and accuracy during border patrols and security operations.
He added that continuous exposure to harsh environmental conditions during patrol duties placed significant strain on the eyes, making periodic medical checks necessary to prevent long-term visual impairment.
Afeni said proactive healthcare would ensure officers remained fit and ready to discharge their responsibilities effectively.
Earlier, the Team Lead of the Safe-to-be-Safe (S2S) Preventive Eye Care Project, Dr Obioma Uchandu, said the initiative was designed to eliminate preventable blindness among Customs personnel, particularly officers serving at border formations.
Uchandu said protecting the eyesight of frontline officers would improve their effectiveness and overall quality of life.
Some beneficiaries commended the initiative, describing it as a morale booster that would enhance officers’ health and operational readiness.
