The FRSC Sector Commander in Abia, Ngozi Ezeoma, made the call on Thursday, October 15, during a World Sight Day event organised by the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau in Umuahia. Ezeoma said poor vision and untreated eye conditions could pose serious risks on the roads, warning that drivers who neglect their eye health endanger themselves, their passengers and other road users.

She appealed to personnel responsible for driving licence applications and renewals to maintain professional standards by ensuring that applicants meet the required vision standards.

According to the sector commander, drivers found to have vision problems should be advised to obtain appropriate corrective lenses or seek further medical assessment before their fitness to drive is confirmed.

Ezeoma commended the Abia State Government for providing an eye screening centre at the Professor Nnenna Oti Central Bus Terminal in Umuahia, describing the initiative as an important step towards improving road safety.

She also cautioned motorists against driving under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs, noting that responsible driving involves protecting the lives of everyone who uses the road.

Earlier, the Administrator of the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau, Dr Betty Emeka-Obasi, raised concerns about unqualified practitioners allegedly presenting themselves as eye specialists in communities across the state.

Emeka-Obasi warned residents against seeking treatment from unqualified individuals, stressing the importance of obtaining eye care from recognised and properly trained professionals.

She also recounted cases involving two young patients who reportedly lost their sight after receiving treatment from traditional practitioners. The cases were presented as a warning about the potential consequences of seeking eye treatment from unqualified providers.

The World Sight Day campaign included the unveiling of an eye screening centre at the Professor Nnenna Oti Central Bus Terminal. Governor Alex Otti was represented at the event by his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, who encouraged residents to prioritise regular eye examinations and seek professional care when necessary.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the state to improve access to eye care and reduce preventable vision loss. Recent reports indicate that Abia has established 20 functional vision centres within primary healthcare facilities, alongside specialist eye-care services in its three senatorial districts.

Health officials have continued to encourage early detection and treatment of eye conditions, particularly among commercial drivers whose work requires them to identify road signs, pedestrians, obstacles and changing traffic conditions.

The FRSC’s appeal reinforces the importance of combining effective driver licensing procedures with regular eye checks, responsible driving and access to qualified eye-care professionals to improve safety on Nigerian roads.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia