…as Radio Nigeria, progress FM holds public lecture
A consultant ophthalmologist at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Prof. Olubola Omotoye, has advised Nigerians to seek medical attention promptly when they notice changes in their eyes to prevent avoidable blindness.
Prof. Omotoye gave the advice during a public lecture and award ceremony organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Progress FM Chapel, in Ado-Ekiti. The event focused on professionalism.
He identified isolation, difficulty in learning, loss of privacy, dependency, and economic loss as major social effects of blindness. She urged the public to desist from practices that could damage their sight.
According to him, most causes of blindness are preventable, treatable, or curable, but late presentation for treatment remains a major obstacle. She stressed the need for pregnant women to get immunised and for citizens to eat balanced diets, avoid quacks, and ensure children are properly nourished.
Prof. Omotoye also warned against applying harmful substances such as urine, breast milk, and sugar water to the eyes, noting that such practices could lead to blindness.
In her remarks, the General Manager of Progress FM, Ado Ekiti, Dr. Adebola Agbaje, charged journalists to balance their professional duties with family life to ensure a happy home and productive workplace. She decried the financial challenges facing journalists and called for improved remuneration for media practitioners.
Also speaking, the Head of the Mass Communication Department, Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, Mrs. Oluwaseun Lawrence, urged students from the polytechnic and Ekiti State University at the event to take the lecture seriously, saying it would aid their careers.
Chairman of the Radio Nigeria Progress FM NUJ Chapel, Mrs. Adefunke Adeigba, said the lecture was organised to sensitise journalists on the need for dedication to the profession while creating time for their families.
Mrs Adeigba appreciated guests at the event and pledged to prioritise members’ welfare.
One of the awardees, Mr. Adebayo Oni, Founder of Heartwood Humanitarian Foundation, was honoured as Community Developer.
Represented by his mother, Mrs. Eunice Oni thanked Progress FM for the recognition and promised continued selfless service to humanity.
The public lecture and award ceremony drew journalists from across Ekiti State and Mass communication Students of institutions In EKiti state as many of them expressed delight at the knowledge gained during the lecture
