Early detection of eye-related conditions could prevent avoidable impairment – FG

2026-03-08 - 13:08

—- Flags off free eye screening for Civil Servants By Johnbosco Agbakwuru, Abuja The Federal Government has said that early detection of eye-related conditions could prevent avoidable impairment, reduce long-term medical costs, and improve overall well-being. The government stated this while flagging off the free eye screening programme for civil servants in Abuja Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Rt. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, explained that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places strong emphasis on human capital development, social investment, and improving the quality of life of Nigerians. She commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for the thoughtful and impactful initiative, stressing: “This programme is not only timely but deeply significant. It clearly demonstrates that the welfare, health, and productivity of our civil servants remain a top priority.” Minister Onyejeocha further stated: “This initiative aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which places strong emphasis on human capital development, social investment, and improving the quality of life of Nigerians. “Mr. President has consistently stressed that a productive nation must be built on a healthy workforce. Today’s event is a practical demonstration of that vision in action. “Healthy vision is critical to effective service delivery. In our daily responsibilities—whether drafting policies, reviewing documents, conducting inspections, or engaging stakeholders—clear sight is indispensable. “By providing free eye screening, we are not only safeguarding the health of our workforce but also strengthening institutional efficiency and national productivity.” She said the programme also reflects a proactive approach to healthcare, shifting from reactive treatment to preventive care. “Early detection of eye-related conditions can prevent avoidable impairment, reduce long-term medical costs, and improve overall well-being. This is the kind of forward-thinking intervention that the Renewed Hope Agenda encourages across all sectors,” she said. Onyejeocha appreciated the dedicated medical team for partnering with the Ministry in this noble cause, adding: “Your expertise and service are invaluable, and we are grateful for your commitment to the well-being of our civil servants.” She also encouraged all staff to take full advantage of the opportunity, advising them that their health is their greatest asset, and by caring for themselves, they contribute more effectively to the nation’s development. “On behalf of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, I reaffirm our unwavering support for initiatives that promote staff welfare, institutional excellence, and national development. “Together, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and through collaborative efforts such as this, we will continue to build a stronger, healthier, and more productive civil service,” she concluded. In her remarks, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, urged workers to participate in the exercise. She said: “In the Public Service, we often speak of vision in terms of leadership, policy direction, and national transformation. “Today’s programme reminds us that vision is also literal. Good eyesight is fundamental to productivity, efficiency, and overall well-being. A healthy workforce remains the foundation of an effective, responsive, and results-driven Public Service. “This Free Eye Screening Programme, which has been extended across Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments, and Agencies, aligns strongly with the objectives of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025 (FCSSIP25), particularly its emphasis on staff welfare and occupational health. “It reflects our shared commitment to preventive healthcare, early diagnosis, and timely treatment for Officers across the Service.”