Ocular Injury Patterns Among Commercial Motorcycle Riders in Maiduguri, Borno State

Ocular injuries represent a significant and largely preventable cause of visual morbidity among occupational road transport workers in Nigeria. This study examines the pattern and determinants of ocular injuries among commercial motorcycle riders (okada operators) in Maiduguri, Borno State, North East Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey will be conducted among 350 motorcycle riders recruited from designated motor parks and roadside stations through cluster sampling. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire will collect data on history of ocular injury, nature and mechanism of injury, use of protective eyewear, and healthcare-seeking behaviour following injury. Comprehensive eye examination will be performed by a trained ophthalmic nurse to document current ocular findings. Data will be analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression to determine predictors of injury and protective gear non-use. Studies from similar occupational cohorts in Nigerian cities report alarmingly low rates of protective eyewear use despite high rates of foreign body entry, conjunctival lacerations, and corneal abrasions. This study provides North East-specific data relevant to Borno State safety regulations and is particularly timely given the ongoing post-conflict rehabilitation context. Findings will inform occupational health policy recommendations for the transport sector, including mandatory helmet and goggle standards, and sensitisation campaigns targeting motorcycle transport unions. Reducing ocular injury among this vulnerable occupational group is essential to preserving workforce productivity in one of Nigeria's most disadvantaged regions. Keywords: ocular injury, motorcycle riders, protective eyewear, Maiduguri, occupational health