The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has launched a medical outreach program to provide free eye tests, glasses, and medications to 5000 commercial drivers, tricycle, and motorcycle operators in Abuja. The initiative, which took place at Jabi Central Park, aims to promote road safety and enhance the visual health of road users. This program is part of the United Nations Decade of Action on road safety, focusing on safer road users.
The Corps Marshal of FRSC, Mallam Shehu Mohammed, stated that the initiative recognizes that road safety is not only about vehicles and roads but also about the health, alertness, and wellbeing of road users. He emphasized that a driver with compromised health may have impaired vision, fatigue, poor concentration, or delayed response, increasing the risk of road traffic crashes. Mohammed was represented by Assistant Corps Marshal Ibrahim Mbazama.
The FRSC has partnered with BATMED to provide this valuable service to the people. The medical outreach program aims to promote preventive healthcare, early detection of health challenges, and responsible health practices among motorists and road users. Mallam Shehu Mohammed commended BATMED for their partnership, highlighting the importance of collaboration between government institutions, civil society organizations, and healthcare professionals.
The Director General of BATMED, Mr. Ojeje Aminu-Onimisi, stated that the medical outreach reflects the humanitarian vision of President Bola Tinubu in advancing the wellbeing of youths through practical intervention and inclusive healthcare. He emphasized that the theme "See Clearly, Drive Safely" captures the urgency of the initiative, as impaired vision can endanger drivers, passengers, and every road user.
Aminu-Onimisi urged motorists to undergo proper eye examinations and act promptly on professional medical advice. He also encouraged them to prioritize their health and safety on the roads, emphasizing that driving safely strengthens the community and builds a stronger Nigeria. The FRSC and BATMED aim to create a safer and healthier environment for road users.
The medical outreach program provides an opportunity for motorists to access free eye tests, glasses, and medications, promoting preventive healthcare and early detection of health challenges. The FRSC and BATMED's partnership demonstrates the impact of collaboration in achieving public interest goals. The program also highlights the importance of responsible health practices among motorists.
The FRSC has urged all motorists to prioritize their health and make it a priority. They advise motorists not to drive when sick, excessively tired, emotionally distressed, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Regular medical checks, adequate rest, good vision, and general physical fitness are essential before embarking on long journeys.
Key points
- The FRSC has provided free eye tests and glasses to 5000 commercial drivers in Abuja to enhance road safety.
- The initiative aims to promote preventive healthcare and early detection of health challenges among motorists.
- The program is part of the United Nations Decade of Action on road safety, focusing on safer road users.