Ayomide Awe
In a groundbreaking move to ensure road safety and the well-being of its members, the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Ogun State chapter, has organized a free eye screening exercise for over 100 members of the association.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the exercise, held at the state secretariat in Obantoko, Abeokuta, was aimed at addressing vision impairments among drivers, a crucial factor in ensuring safe transportation of passengers and goods across the state.
Speaking during the event, the Secretary of the union, Comrade Tiwalade Akingbade, described the initiative as timely and life-saving.
According to him, the exercise coincided with the association’s first meeting of the year, serving as a gesture of goodwill from the chairman of the union, Alhaji Titilayo Akibu, popularly called Efele to members returning from the festive season.
“This initiative is essential because our work as transport operators heavily depends on clear vision.
“During our last screening exercise, several members were found to have serious eye issues, and this prompted the chairman to prioritize eye health,” Akingbade said.
He further revealed that members in need of glasses or medications were provided assistance, while those requiring surgeries would have their bills subsidized by the association.
The outreach manager from St. Mary’s Catholic Eye Hospital, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Mrs. Olanrewaju Adenike, who led the medical team, highlighted significant findings during the screening.
According to her, many drivers suffered from pterygium, a condition caused by prolonged exposure to sun and dust, exacerbated by their outdoor work environment.
“We discovered that most of these drivers rarely check their eyes, and this neglect worsens their conditions.
Regular eye checkups, at least once a year, are crucial, especially for those over 40. We also advise against driving at night, which poses additional risks for those with compromised vision,” Olanrewaju said.
One of the beneficiaries, Alhaji Lateef Dehinde, Secretary of the Sango-Ota chapter, praised the association’s leadership for initiating the program.
He confirmed that members received appropriate treatments, including glasses for those with severe vision problems, while the association promised to subsidize surgical costs for those requiring advanced care.
“This is a commendable initiative. It shows that our leadership is not just concerned about our work but also our health and safety.
This programme has given many of us the opportunity to address long-standing eye issues,” Dehinde stated.
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