The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, has sponsored a free eye care programme for officers and men of the command as part of efforts to promote personnel welfare, improve operational efficiency and encourage the early detection of vision-related health challenges.
The initiative, organised at the command headquarters in Idiroko, Ogun State, featured comprehensive ophthalmic services conducted by medical professionals from Vision Spring under its See to Be Safe (S2S) project.
Officers underwent visual acuity screening and funduscopy, while those requiring corrective lenses received prescription glasses free of charge.
The Public Relations Officer of the Command, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Chado Zakari, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, saying the exercise underscored the command’s commitment to the health and welfare of its personnel.
Speaking at the event, DC Afeni stressed that good eyesight was indispensable to effective border security, enforcement operations and administrative responsibilities.
According to him, clear vision improves reaction time, enhances night-time vigilance and increases accuracy during border patrols and security checks, adding that officers are constantly exposed to harsh environmental conditions that place significant strain on their eyesight
“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 officers’ 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 and men of the Ogun I Area Command to prioritise their vision and participate actively in routine eye screening exercises”, he said.
The Customs boss further urged personnel to take preventive healthcare seriously to remain fit for duty.
“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.”
Earlier, the Team Lead Consultant of the Vision Spring See to Be Safe (S2S) project, Dr Obioma Uchandu, said the initiative was designed to promote preventive eye care among Customs officers, with the objective of eliminating preventable blindness, particularly among personnel securing Nigeria’s borders such as those stationed at Idiroko.
The beneficiaries commended Afeni for the intervention, describing it as a morale booster that would enhance officers’ health, productivity and operational readiness.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining welfare programmes aimed at building a healthy, responsive and efficient workforce capable of effectively carrying out its statutory responsibilities.
