In a bid to enhance Eye Healthcare Services and foster development in Abia State, the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) has announced plans to establish a National Eye Center in the state.
The proposed center which is aimed at addressing visual impairment caused by refractive errors, is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts of Governor Alex Otti to prioritize public health and advance the quality of life for the people of Abia State.
The National President of NOA, Dr Chimeziri Anderson made the disclosure when he led Executive Members of the Association on a visit to Governor Otti.
Dr.Anderson who also came in company of the ONE SIGHT ESSILOR LUXOTTICA FOUNDATION, said they have decided to set up Optical Laboratories in select regions of Nigeria, with Umuahia ,Abia state chosen for the Eastern Region.
Dr. Anderson said the Association has considered Abia as one of the states where the first phase of first level Vision Centres must be at the primary Centres free of charge.
He noted that the project which will cover the 36 states including the FCT has been Kick-started in Abia state in recognition of Governor Otti’s commitment to healthcare which is evident through increased budgetary allocation to the critical sector.
Dr Anderson used the forum to request for the commencement of internship training for optometrists in the state higher institutions, engagement of Optometrists per local government through the primary health development Agency to extend eye care services to rural Communities and the review of salaries and allowances of Optometry Doctors in the Abia state civil service among others.
Responding, Governor Alex Otti who praised the Association’s decision to establish a National Eye Center in the state, thanked them for considering Abia as one of the states to benefit from the first phase of the project and promised to provide full support for it’s realization.
“I want to also thank you for the decision to consider Abia.Just like Oliver Twist,we will always ask for more.But I think what is important for now is to take advantage of the offer and work closely with you”, the Governor said.
He assured that the government would identify suitable locations for the centers and provide the necessary support for the project’s commencement.
The Governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare delivery and highlighted ongoing efforts to renovate and retrofit General Hospitals, with plans to extend improvements to Primary Healthcare centers once the hospital renovations are complete.
Responding to requests for the upward review of salaries and allowances of Optometry Doctors in the Abia State Civil Service, Governor Otti disclosed that his Special Adviser on Labour relations is working towards addressing salary review comprehensively.
efforts of Governor Alex Otti to prioritize public health and advance the quality of life for the people of Abia State.
