Government workers in Cross River State have commended the administration of Bassey Otu for a free eye screening and medical check initiative, which they say is improving their health and boosting productivity.
Hundreds of civil servants turned out for the exercise, describing it as timely and impactful. Many noted that the programme helped them detect eye problems early, access care, and save money.
One beneficiary, Johnson Isong, called the exercise life-changing, emphasising that good vision is critical to well-being and workplace performance. “I received free reading glasses and a referral. I commend what the Head of Service is doing. Sight is vital to life,” he said.
Another civil servant, Okey Alobi, described the initiative as rare and commendable. “The health and well-being of civil servants are being prioritised.” Services like these are often unaffordable in private facilities, so the initiative makes a real difference,” he added.
Labour representative Iloke Egbe said the initiative had boosted workers’ morale and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to their welfare. “It is a morale booster and will enable us to give our best in service to our state. The glasses I received will provide comfort when reading,” he noted.
A partner organisation representative, Judith Obiara of the Holistic Public Health Group, explained that the outreach marked World Optometry Day and offered free eye tests and blood pressure checks. She stressed the importance of routine eye examinations and monitoring blood pressure, describing hypertension as a “silent killer.”.
Ogechi Chukwu, Chairperson of the Nigerian Optometric Association, Cross River State Chapter, said the response exceeded expectations. In Calabar, over 500 civil servants received care, with additional outreach in Yala Local Government Area. She called on the state government to employ more optometrists, recommending at least one per local government area to improve access to eye care.
The Head of Service, Orok Okon, said the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance workers’ health and productivity. “Poor eyesight directly affects performance. That is why we partnered with the optometrists’ association to conduct this screening. Hundreds of workers who were unaware of their health status are now better informed and managing their health effectively,” he said.
Okon added that the programme forms part of a monthly health initiative for civil servants, held every last Friday of the month, which combines medical check-ups with fitness activities.