Clear vision, stronger borders: Afeni rolls out free eye care for customs personnel

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Recognising that effective border security begins with a healthy workforce, the Acting Customs Area Controller of the Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, has launched a comprehensive free eye care programme for officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service.

He maintained that good vision is a critical asset in the fight against smuggling and other cross-border crimes.

Acting Comptroller Afeni, officers and men of the command at the free eye care programme at Idiroko

The initiative, held at the Command Headquarters in Idiroko, underscores the growing emphasis on personnel welfare within the Nigeria Customs Service, with the Command noting that physically fit and medically sound officers are better equipped to undertake the demanding responsibilities of border surveillance, intelligence gathering, cargo examination and enforcement operations.

The medical outreach, sponsored by Afeni in partnership with VisionSpring through its See to Be Safe (S2S) project, offered officers specialised ophthalmic services, including visual acuity tests, fundus examinations to assess the retina and optic nerve, as well as free prescription glasses for beneficiaries diagnosed with visual impairments.

Speaking at the exercise, Afeni said maintaining healthy eyesight is fundamental to the effectiveness of Customs operations, particularly for officers deployed to border posts where alertness, accuracy and quick judgment are essential.

He explained that officers are routinely exposed to harsh environmental conditions during patrols and enforcement duties, making periodic eye examinations an important preventive health measure.

“Good health remains the foundation of operational efficiency and officers’ wellbeing. Our officers undertake demanding daily tasks ranging from tactical border surveillance and field enforcement to detailed physical examinations and administrative responsibilities. Regular eye screening is therefore essential to safeguarding their health while maintaining operational excellence,” he said.

The Acting Customs Area Controller noted that clear vision enhances officers’ reaction time, improves night patrol capabilities and increases precision during inspections and surveillance operations, all of which contribute directly to national security.

According to him, investing in the welfare of personnel is equally an investment in the Service’s capacity to protect Nigeria’s borders and facilitate legitimate trade.

“Good vision is fundamental not only to career performance but also to personal safety, family life and long-term wellbeing. 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,” Afeni added.

Earlier, the Team Lead Consultant of the See to Be Safe (S2S) project, Dr. Obioma Uchandu, said the programme was designed to promote preventive eye care among Customs officers, particularly those serving at strategic border formations.

She explained that the initiative aims to eliminate preventable blindness through early diagnosis and treatment, noting that officers stationed at border commands require optimal eyesight to effectively perform their duties.

Beneficiaries commended the Acting Customs Area Controller for prioritising their welfare, describing the programme as timely and impactful. They noted that beyond improving their health, the initiative has boosted morale and reinforced the Command’s commitment to the wellbeing of its personnel.

The eye care programme adds to the welfare initiatives being implemented at the Ogun I Area Command under Afeni’s leadership, reflecting a management philosophy that places equal importance on personnel wellbeing and operational effectiveness.

With the latest intervention, the Command reaffirmed its resolve to continue investing in the health, welfare and professional readiness of its workforce as part of broader efforts to strengthen border security, suppress smuggling and enhance service delivery.