By Douglas Princemola
In a bold step to reduce road accidents through improved vision care, the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA), Imo State Chapter, has flagged off its 2025 World Sight Week campaign with a media briefing held at Gold Crown Hotel, Owerri.
This year’s global theme, “Love Your Eyes,” has been locally redefined as “Road Safety Through Vision Care for Drivers,” underscoring the critical role of eyesight in public safety.
Addressing journalists, the Imo NOA Chairman, Dr. Patrick Iwuchukwu, represented by his Vice, Dr. Mrs Joyce Iroakazi, said the campaign aims to tackle the often overlooked link between impaired vision and road crashes, noting that many commercial drivers unknowingly suffer from vision problems that compromise their ability to drive safely, leading to avoidable accidents, injuries, and loss of lives.
She informed that as part of the week-long activities, Imo NOA, in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), among other stakeholders, will carry out free vision screenings for drivers and commuters across key locations in the state.
According to her, the screenings will take place on Friday, October 10, at Ihiagwa Park (Owerri Zone), and on Saturday, October 11, at Anara Park (Okigwe Zone) and Divine Branch, Banana Junction (Orlu Zone).
“Beyond screenings, the campaign includes advocacy visits, media sensitization, and referrals for individuals needing further eye care. The project will also generate valuable data to support long-term planning and policy decisions in the area of vision care and road safety,” Iroakazi disclosed.
Dr. Iroakazi further stated that the initiative is part of the association’s flagship program, “Anya Ndi Imo Di Nma,” which aligns with the 3R mantra of the Imo State Government of Recovery, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation.
She commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for prioritizing health sector reforms, particularly the Imo Care Health Insurance Scheme, which she described as one of the most effective in the country.
Iroakazi called on government bodies, corporate organizations, NGOs, and philanthropists to support the initiative, emphasizing that eye health should be viewed as an essential investment in safety, productivity, and the overall well-being of society. She stressed that vision care should not be treated as a luxury but as a necessity for a safer and more prosperous Imo.
Appreciating the dedication of optometrists across the state and the cooperation of partner agencies, she encouraged members of the public to take advantage of the free screenings, reminding all that “next to life itself, God’s most precious gift is sight and it is our collective responsibility to protect it.”
In his speech, the Imo State Chairman of NURTW, Jeff Eze, represented by Owerri Relief Park Chairman, Comrade Paddy Obinna Jnr, expressed delight in being part of the program, saying its theme is timely.
He acknowledged the importance of drivers having sound eyesight in order to function well in their core profession of driving.
While assuring the union’s continued partnership with NOA for the betterment of their members, Comrade Obinna promised to disseminate the eye care information so it reaches all drivers in the state.
Other stakeholders and personalities who took turns to speak at the event include the FRSC Imo State Sector Commander, Emea Udensi Orji, represented by CRC Agu O. Agu; Dr. Mrs Munachi Abiazie, State Secretary of NOA; Dr. Mrs Chinenye Ibeh, Chairman, Event and Planning Committee, Imo NOA; and Comrade Kelechi Anyanwuocha, Head of Media Department, NURTW.
