Quality eye healthcare Nigeria gets federal backing as Minister Pate affirms sector-wide approach at optometrists’ conference in Umuahia to improve vision care

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to quality eye healthcare in Nigeria as part of a broader national approach to accessible medical services.

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Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, Professor Azubuike Onyebuchi said that eye care is an integral component of the country’s healthcare agenda.

He delivered the message on Thursday during the 48th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) in Umuahia, with the theme: Optometry in a Changing World: Adapting to Emerging Trends.

“He wants all to access quality healthcare all over the country, including eye health,” Onyebuchi stated. “He aligns with your team for this conference and expects that all the things planned to be achieved will be achieved. It will be a way of renewing the hope of Nigerians.”

Dr Anderson Chimeziri, President of the NOA, said the conference was timely for optometrists to reassess how they adapt to fast-changing healthcare realities. “As primary eye care providers, we must not only keep pace—we must take the lead,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer and Registrar of the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN), Dr Obinna Awiaka, emphasised the need to embrace innovation.

He highlighted workforce development, digital transformation, and ethics as critical to the future of the profession.

“Optometry must continue to play a central role in primary healthcare delivery,” he noted. “We continue to review our regulatory framework to ensure that it reflects current realities.”

The NOA’s Abia State Chair, Dr Ogbonna Onyedikachi, praised the recent creation of the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau, describing it as a bold move to institutionalise eye care. She credited Governor Alex Otti for “acting with precision, passion, and purpose”.

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Governor Otti, represented by Secretary to the State Government, Prof Kenneth Kalu, urged attendees to focus on improving lives. “What can we do better? How can we make society better for all—not just the rich or the strong, but for everyone?” he asked.