May 16, (THEWILL) – The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality eye care services for all Nigerians.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, gave the assurance on Thursday in Abuja at the Eyeball Summit organised by the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN).
The summit, themed “Shaping the Future of Eye Care in Nigeria: Strengthening Systems Through Strategic Alliances,”brought together key stakeholders in the eye care sector to develop sustainable strategies for improving the country’s eye health system through collaboration, resource sharing, and policy reforms.
Describing the event as timely and aligned with the government’s broader health objectives under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Salako said, “In confronting the growing burden of visual impairment and the increasing demand for eye care services, we cannot work in silos. Strategic alliances are crucial for bridging gaps, sharing expertise, and driving innovation in service delivery.”
He outlined the government’s plans to raise public awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations, improve infrastructure, and strengthen human resource capacity in the sector.
“We are dedicated to creating an environment where eye health professionals are equipped with the necessary tools, policies, and support systems to serve effectively,” Salako stated.
The Minister also reiterated the administration’s resolve to extend affordable eye care services to underserved communities, stressing that equity remains a central pillar in healthcare delivery.
On his part, Registrar of ODORBN, Dr. Obinna Awiaka, said the summit reflects the profession’s collective pursuit of excellence and innovation in vision care. He called for continuous improvement in practice to meet evolving patient needs and technological advancements while upholding ethical and professional standards.
“No single organisation can singlehandedly transform the eye care landscape. Our shared vision demands collaboration, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to preserving the gift of sight for every Nigerian,” Awiaka said.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
