The Administrator, Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau, Dr. Betty Emeka Obasi, has been conferred with the prestigious Fellowship Award of the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) in recognition of her outstanding contributions to eye care advancement in Nigeria.
The award was presented by Her Excellency, Lady Pricilla Chidinma Otti, First Lady of Abia State, during the recently concluded NOA National Conference hosted in Umuahia, the Abia State capital.
The award highlights Dr. Obasi’s pioneering leadership in implementing accessible, high-quality eye care through Nigeria’s first state-owned eye health bureau—a visionary initiative established by Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR. Since its creation, the Bureau has introduced innovative eye care programs, strengthened community outreach, and positioned Abia State as a model in public sector-driven eye health management nationwide.
Just a day prior, Dr. Obasi also received an Award of Excellence during the conference’s opening ceremony, further affirming the Bureau’s transformative impact on grassroots eye health delivery.
In her acceptance remarks, Dr. Obasi expressed heartfelt gratitude to Governor Otti for his visionary leadership, stating:
Dr. Betty-Obasi said: “This recognition is a testament to the collective effort of Optometrists, our dedicated team, and the entire eye health community in Abia State and beyond. I am deeply honored to serve in a role that advances eye care and transforms lives.”
She also thanked Lady Pricilla Otti for her unwavering support in promoting eye health and facilitating the successful hosting of the conference.
“This award inspires me to continue championing accessible, quality eye care for all. My sincere thanks go to the NOA leadership, my colleagues, and my family for their encouragement”, she said.
The NOA Fellowship Award is one of the highest distinctions in Nigerian optometry, reserved for professionals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the field. Dr. Obasi’s recognition solidifies Abia’s standing as a national leader in people-focused, sustainable eye health programs.
With two major awards in two days, Dr. Obasi’s recognition marks a significant milestone for Abia’s health sector and reinforces the state’s commitment to inclusive, innovation-led healthcare delivery.
The event drew a distinguished audience, including top government officials and stakeholders in the health sector. Notable attendees included: Prof. Azubuike Onyebuchi, CMD of FMC Umuahia, representing the Minister of State for Health; Prof. Kenneth Kanu, Secretary to the State Government; Prof. Enoch Uche Ogbonnaya, Commissioner for Health; Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities; Dr. Mathew Ekwuribe, Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy; Senator Darlington Nwokocha; Mrs. Magdalene Ugoanusi, SA on Chieftaincy Affairs; Mrs. Nkolika Ubani, Special Adviser on Legal Matters; Lady Mrs. Ezihe Lydia Onuoha, Executive Chairman, ASUBEB; Dr. Odochi Azubuike, CEO, Hospital Management Board; Dr. Chimezie Okwuonu, CMD, Abia Specialist Hospital among others.
