Compt Afeni Sponsors Free Comprehensive Eye Care Initiative For Officers Of Ogun1 Area Command
Compt Afeni Sponsors Free Comprehensive Eye Care Initiative For Officers Of Ogun1 Area Command
By Success Okezie
In line with ongoing efforts to place personnel welfare at the center of service delivery, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, has sponsored a full-scale free eye care program for officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Area Command.
The medical outreach was designed to promote healthy living, encourage early detection of eye-related conditions, and ensure that officers remain medically fit to carry out their constitutional duties.
The program was delivered in partnership with *Vision Spring under its “See To Be Safe (S2S) initiative. A team of qualified ophthalmologists and optometrists provided specialized services including:
– Visual Acuity Test – to assess the sharpness and clarity of vision
– Fundoscopy – to examine the retina, optic nerve, and other structures at the back of the eye
– Free Prescription Eyeglasses – issued to officers diagnosed with refractive errors
Speaking at the flag-off of the exercise, DC Afeni stated that clear and healthy vision is non-negotiable for officers tasked with securing the nation’s borders, enforcing laws, and handling sensitive administrative work.
“Good health is the bedrock of operational efficiency. Our officers face rigorous daily routines — from tactical border patrols and field operations to detailed inspections and documentation.
Regular eye screening is therefore a critical preventive step. It protects our personnel while ensuring the Command maintains optimal performance at all times,” he said.
The Area Controller further noted that good eyesight directly improves reaction speed, night operations, and precision during surveillance and security checks. He added that officers are constantly exposed to dust, sun, and other harsh conditions on patrol, which puts immense strain on the eyes.
“Beyond duty, good vision is essential for personal safety, family responsibility, and long-term well-being. I urge every officer and man of Ogun I Command to make eye care a priority and to take advantage of routine screenings.
When we protect our vision today, we secure our capacity to serve Nigeria effectively tomorrow. Your eyes are your most important operational tool — guard them jealously,” DC Afeni concluded.
Also speaking, the Team Lead of the S2S Project, Dr. Obioma Uchandu, explained that the initiative focuses on preventive eye care for security operatives. The goal, she said, is to eliminate avoidable blindness, particularly among officers stationed at high-risk border formations such as Idiroko.
Beneficiaries of the program expressed sincere appreciation to the Area Controller. Many described the intervention as timely, morale-boosting, and a clear demonstration of leadership that prioritizes both the professional and personal welfare of its personnel.
Ogun I Area Command reaffirms its commitment to sustaining health-focused programs that enhance the capacity, readiness, and overall well-being of its personnel in the discharge of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and border security mandates
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