In a move to enhance road safety and safeguard public health, the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau, has launched a free eye screening programme for drivers in the state civil service.
The initiative began on Wednesday, June 5, 2025, at the JAAC Secretariat Building, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, and is scheduled to run through Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on behalf of the Bureau’s Administrator, Dr. Mrs. Betty Emeka-Obasi, was the Bureau’s Desk Officer, Dr. Jennifer Uduma. She highlighted the importance of regular eye examinations, particularly for drivers, noting that good vision is a non-negotiable aspect of road safety.
“No matter how experienced a driver is, impaired vision can lead to avoidable accidents and critical errors on the road. This screening exercise is part of our proactive approach to ensuring safer roads by protecting the eyesight of our civil service drivers,” she said.
The free screening is exclusively for drivers currently employed in the Abia State Civil Service. However, the Bureau revealed that plans are already in motion to expand the programme to cover all categories of drivers across the state in future phases.
The Eye Health Management Bureau is encouraging all eligible civil service drivers to take full advantage of the initiative and get their eyes examined by qualified professionals — at no cost.
This intervention aligns with the vision of the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, whose administration continues to prioritize public health and safety through sustainable initiatives aimed at boosting productivity and minimizing preventable risks, including road traffic accidents associated with poor vision.
