By Bimpe Audu
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to officers’ welfare with a free eye care programme aimed at promoting eye health, preventing vision-related conditions and enhancing operational efficiency across the Command.
The programme, sponsored by the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC), Oladapo Afeni, was held on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, in collaboration with VisionSpring under its See to Be Safe (S2S) project. Officers and men of the Command received comprehensive ophthalmic services, including visual acuity screening, fundus examination and free prescription glasses for beneficiaries diagnosed with vision defects.
Speaking at the event, DC Afeni said the initiative reflects the Command’s commitment to maintaining a healthy workforce capable of meeting the demands of Customs operations. He noted that officers rely heavily on good eyesight to perform surveillance, enforcement, cargo examination and other operational duties effectively.
“Good health remains the foundation of operational efficiency and officers’ well-being. Clear vision enhances reaction time, improves vigilance and accuracy during border patrols, and ultimately strengthens our effectiveness in protecting the nation’s borders. I encourage all officers to prioritise regular eye screening because protecting your vision is essential to both your professional performance and personal well-being,” he stated.
Earlier, the Team Lead of the See to Be Safe (S2S) project, Dr Obioma Uchandu, said the initiative focuses on preventive eye care for Customs officers, particularly those serving in border communities. She explained that the programme seeks to eliminate preventable blindness through early detection and timely intervention among frontline personnel.
“Our objective is to reduce preventable blindness by encouraging early detection and treatment. Customs officers work under demanding conditions, and preserving their vision is essential to their effectiveness and long-term well-being,” she said.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that would improve their health, boost morale and enhance their readiness for duty. They also commended the Command for prioritising officers’ welfare through preventive healthcare.
