Dr. Obinna Awiaka, Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN), has called on parents and caregivers to prioritize the inclusion of more vegetables and fruits in children’s diets to promote healthy eyesight. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced diet rich in greens during breakfast.
Speaking in Abuja at the “Children’s Sight Marathon,” an event organized by ODORBN in celebration of the 2024 World Sight Day, Dr. Awiaka explained that the initiative aims to introduce beneficial exercises to enhance vision among children.
“Encourage them to eat vegetables and fruits, and incorporate eye exercises into their routines. We advocate for the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of screen time, look away at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to keep their eyes healthy,” he advised.
The marathon event was designed to engage children in physical activities while raising awareness about eye care. “We conceptualized this program to combat blindness. The activities, including marathons and short races, are designed to promote physical activity and eye health,” he noted.
Dr. Awiaka also highlighted the necessity of outdoor activity, urging children to spend time in sunlight to absorb vitamin D. “Avoid being confined to air-conditioned spaces. Engage in outdoor exercises to benefit from natural sunlight,” he stated.
Hon. Emeka Idu, the representative for Onitsha North/Onitsha South in the House of Representatives, commended ODORBN for their efforts and pledged to initiate a constituency project focused on enhancing children’s eye health in the area. He emphasized the importance of addressing visual security concerns for both privileged and underprivileged children.
“This initiative will not only raise awareness of available eye health services but will also empower constituents through community outreach programs that educate the public on the significance of eye health,” Idu remarked.
Collaboration is central to the success of this initiative, according to the lawmaker. He plans to partner with optometrists, dispensers, and educational institutions to advance the program. Furthermore, he aims to draft a potential bill that will support eye health initiatives, showcasing the government’s dedication to tackling this pressing issue.
“It is crucial that we work together; real change cannot be achieved in isolation. This initiative reflects the National Assembly’s commitment to responding to constituents’ demands for development and federal presence,” Idu added.
Assistant Inspector General of Police, Bennett Igweh, who oversees Zone 7 in Abuja, spoke at the event about the vital role of eyesight in personal security. He emphasized that sight is the primary form of security, stating, “What you see matters. Your ability to see something is essential before any response can be activated.”
Igweh encouraged participants to take steps to protect their eyesight, highlighting its importance not only for personal safety but also for the well-being of the community and nation. “When you see something, you can say something. Preserving your eyesight is crucial for your security and that of others,” he concluded.
The event, titled “Love Your Eyes Kids,” was organized in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the National Eye Health Programme (NEHP), underscoring the collective effort to promote children’s eye health across Nigeria.
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