NEWS
Abia Begins 2026 World Sight Day Activities, Targets Commercial Drivers With Free Eye Screening
Abia State has commenced activities marking the 2026 World Sight Day, with the state government set to provide free eye screening for commercial drivers and other residents as part of efforts to promote eye health and prevent avoidable visual impairment.
The programme, which will run until October 6, 2026, is expected to provide residents with opportunities to access basic eye checks and receive early attention for possible vision-related conditions.
The initiative is particularly significant for commercial drivers and other road users, as good vision remains essential for safe driving and the prevention of road crashes linked to poor eyesight.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Prince Kanu said the World Sight Day activities form part of the state’s broader public health efforts aimed at improving access to preventive healthcare services and encouraging residents to take proactive steps towards protecting their eyesight.
Residents are expected to take advantage of the free screening opportunities during the period of the programme, particularly those who may have experienced changes in their vision or have not undergone an eye examination recently.
The 2026 World Sight Day activities therefore provide an opportunity for Abia residents to prioritise eye health, while strengthening public awareness around the importance of early detection and treatment of vision-related 
conditions.