There was excitement among newspaper distributors in Lagos on Wednesday as Vanguard Newspapers donated dozens of prescription eyeglasses to support their work and improve their eye health.
The donation, which took place at the Newspaper Distributors Association of Nigeria (NDAN) office in Oshodi, was part of Vanguard’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at uplifting the welfare of those who play a vital role in the circulation of daily newspapers across the country.
Presenting the eyeglasses, Vanguard’s Circulation Manager, Mr. Gabriel Eme, said the company recognized the strain distributors face in their daily work, often involving long hours of reading fine print, sorting papers, and working under harsh sunlight.
“Our distributors are the backbone of the newspaper business. Without them, our stories will not reach homes, offices, and the wider public. This small gesture is our way of saying thank you and ensuring they carry out their duties with comfort,” Eme said.
The beneficiaries, many of whom had complained of eye strain and difficulty in reading, expressed joy and gratitude over the gesture.
“This is the first time in my 20 years of distributing newspapers that anyone has thought about our eye health,” said Mr. Adewale Oladipo, a veteran distributor. “We feel valued today, and I believe this will help us work better.”
Another recipient, Mrs. Amaka Nwachukwu, added that the glasses would not only improve her work but also her daily life. “Sometimes I struggle to read headlines, but with these glasses, I feel like I can see clearly again.”
The Chairman of NDAN, Mr. Musa Ibrahim, commended Vanguard for the donation, urging other media houses to emulate the gesture. “Our members work tirelessly to ensure the public is informed. It is heartwarming to see Vanguard recognize this contribution,” he said.
Health experts at the event also conducted free eye checks for distributors, advising them on proper eye care and the importance of regular medical examinations.
With smiles, laughter, and a renewed sense of belonging, the distributors left the event praising Vanguard for remembering their struggles and supporting their health needs.
