World Sight Day: FRSC tasks commercial drivers on routine eye-check
NAN-HG-13
Sight
Abuja, Oct. 13, 2016 (NAN) The Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC) has advised commercial drivers and other category of motorists to undertake routine eye checks so as to reduce road crashes in the country.
The Head of FRSC Operations in FCT, Mr Udeme Eshiet, gave the advice in Abuja on Thursday during the commemoration of this year’s ‘World Sight Day’.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, which was organised by the Nigerian Optometric Association in collaboration with the FRSC, has as its theme “Universal Eye Health: Stronger together”.
NAN also reports that the ‘World Sight Day’ is commemorated annually on every second Thursday of October.
Eshiet said that some of the road crashes in the country could be as a result of drivers’ visual problems.
“When you don’t have a good eye sight one cannot drive well.
“Good eye sight is important in driving and that is why we ensure the eye is properly checked before obtaining driver’s license.
“Even though people with visual impairment try to compensate for their difficulties usually by avoiding crowded route and slower driving.
“It is not enough to make up for a reduced ability to recognise road signs, hazards and pedestrians,’’ he said.
Dr Ozy Okonokhua, Lions International’s District Community Chairperson for Sight, said there was need for regular checks to detect any eye defect.
He said most of blindness in the country could be preventable if individuals ensure regular checks from professionals.
“Most Nigerians are nonchalant about their eyes and most times they don’t see reasons why they should check.
“The reason why we are here today is to sensitise members of the public on the need to check their eyes; it could be cataract or glaucoma,’’ he said.
On his part, the President of Albino Foundation, Dr Jake Epelle, charged the National Orientation Agency (NOA) on more enlightenment of Nigerians on eye health.
“We albinos have more issues with our eyes and that is our makeup.
“That is why today is very important to us as albinos,” he said.
The Supervisory Councillor for Health and Environment in AMAC, Mr Muritala Karshi, said the day was historic and it would add value to many Nigerians as they would be given free eye treatment. (NAN)
OEO/DO/MST
Edited by David Onilede/Muhammad Suleiman Tola