In a bold move to combat the rising vision impairment crisis in Nigeria, the House of Representatives is advocating for the establishment of a Federal Institute for Vision and Optical Research in each of the country’s six geo-political zones.
This initiative, spearheaded by Hon. Victor Obuzor, the lawmaker representing Ahoada West/Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Federal Constituency in Rivers State, aims to expand access to eye care services and drive scientific research in vision health across the nation.
Why Nigeria Needs More Optical Institutes
Speaking to journalists at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, Obuzor stressed the urgent need for these institutes, citing alarming statistics:
- 50 million Nigerians currently suffer from some form of visual impairment.
- Over 7 million people are already blind.
- WHO projections indicate that without intervention, these numbers could double by 2050.
“As guardians of public health, we must address the escalating prevalence of vision impairment, particularly in underserved communities,” Obuzor stated.
Widespread Support for the Bill
Obuzor, who sponsored the bill for the establishment of a Federal Institute for Vision and Optical Research in Rivers State, revealed that overwhelming support from stakeholders during a recent public hearing prompted lawmakers to advocate for its replication nationwide.
“The House is delighted with the bill and has asked that the institute, since it’s one of its kind, should be replicated in all six geo-political zones,” he said.
Push for a Federal College of Optometry
In addition to this bill, Obuzor is also sponsoring another bill for the establishment of a Federal College of Optometry, which would train professionals in optometry and related fields, awarding degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
“This will address the current low level of scientific research and development in vision healthcare while ensuring a phenomenal increase in the number of qualified eye care professionals,” he explained.
Speaker Abbas Backs the Initiative
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has expressed full support for both bills, emphasizing their potential impact on Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
“If considered and passed into law, these bills will lead to the establishment of more specialized eye care facilities across the country and significantly improve research and professional manpower in vision healthcare,” Abbas stated.
A Step Towards a Clearer Future
With vision disorders reaching epidemic levels in Nigeria, this initiative could be a game-changer in providing quality eye care, expanding optometric education, and tackling avoidable blindness nationwide. Will this long-overdue reform finally bring eye care to the forefront of Nigeria’s healthcare system? Only time will tell.
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