Indian High Commission Provides Free Eye Screening for Media Professionals, Hails them as Pillars of Democracy

The High Commission of India in Nigeria on Monday organised a free eye care outreach for journalists and media professionals in Abuja, underscoring the critical role of the media in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting informed societies.

The eye camp, held in collaboration with Skipper Eye-Q Hospital, was organised in response to a request by the Diplomatic Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria (DICAN) and provided participants with free eye examinations and professional medical consultations.

Speaking at the event, the High Commissioner of India to Nigeria, Ambassador Abhishek Singh, described the media as the “fourth wheel of democracy” and stressed the importance of maintaining strong engagement between diplomatic missions and the press.

Addressing journalists at the Indian High Commission in Abuja, Singh recalled a recent interaction with media practitioners during a reception at India House, where the request for the eye care initiative was first presented by DICAN President, Mr. Fredrick Idehai.

“During our discussions, I emphasised the importance of the media in any democracy. As the representative of the world’s largest democracy, India, in Africa’s largest democracy, Nigeria, I stressed that beyond the executive, legislature and judiciary, the media serves as the fourth wheel of democracy,” he said.

The High Commissioner noted that regular interaction with the media remains a key component of India’s diplomatic engagement in Nigeria.

He expressed satisfaction that the High Commission was able to promptly respond to the request by partnering with Skipper Eye-Q Hospital to provide eye care services to journalists.

According to him, the initiative was designed to support media professionals whose work requires constant visual engagement and attention to detail.

“This free eye camp provides journalists with an opportunity to undergo eye examinations and receive professional medical advice. Healthy eyesight is vital for all individuals, especially media personnel, who serve as the eyes and ears of our society,” Singh stated.

The envoy also reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting journalists and strengthening cooperation with media organisations in Nigeria.

He assured members of the Diplomatic Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria that the High Commission would continue to provide assistance within its capacity and maintain close engagement with the media on issues relating to bilateral relations between both countries.

“I want to assure the Diplomatic Correspondents’ Association that the High Commission of India and the High Commissioner stand ready to provide whatever assistance is required to the best of our abilities,” he said.

Singh further expressed optimism about future interactions with the media on matters of mutual interest and bilateral importance, while reaffirming India’s commitment to deepening relations with Nigeria.

The event forms part of ongoing efforts by the Indian High Commission to strengthen people-to-people ties and promote cooperation in health, education, trade and diplomatic relations between India and Nigeria.

The outreach concluded with eye screenings and consultations for participating journalists, many of whom commended the initiative as a timely intervention for media professionals.