As ODORBN Holds Summit to Brainstorm on Eye Health Improvement

By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The Federal Government has called for strategic alliances among stakeholders in the nation’s eye health sector, emphasizing the need for integrated and coordinated efforts to drive lasting change.

Speaking at the Eyeball Summit 2025, organized by the Optometrists and Dispensing Optician’s Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN), the Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, stressed that cooperation among government agencies, professional bodies, NGOs, and private organizations is vital for building a sustainable and inclusive eye care system in Nigeria.

The summit, themed “Shaping the Future of Eye Care in Nigeria: Strengthening Systems through Strategic Alliances,” brought together experts, professionals, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing eye health in the country.

Salako noted that strategic partnerships are essential for pooling resources, sharing expertise, and developing innovative solutions to close the gaps in eye care provision.

“By working together, we can ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of their geographical location or economic status, has access to the eye care they need,” Salako emphasized.

“This includes raising awareness about regular eye check-ups, ensuring proper infrastructure, supporting policies that promote eye health, and providing continuous professional training for caregivers,” he added.

The minister described the summit’s theme as aligned with the Federal Ministry of Health’s goals under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to ensure that Nigerians receive quality healthcare without financial hardship.

“Vision is an essential part of human existence, and ensuring quality eye care is not just about health; it’s about dignity, empowerment, and progress,” he stated.

Salako assured participants that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to improving healthcare delivery across all sectors, including eye care. He acknowledged the crucial role played by Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians in preserving vision and maintaining the quality of life for Nigerians.

The Minister announced that under the 2025 budget, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will implement the Renewed Hope Health Connect, a fully subsidized healthcare initiative aimed at reaching vulnerable populations in rural areas.

Key components of the program include:

JIGI BOLA 2.0 – Provision of prescribed glasses free of charge.

Cataract surgeries and other treatments for medical conditions affecting eye health.

Screening for refractive errors and early detection of eye diseases.

“Under this initiative, we will expand access to affordable eye care services, crucial in a country where many live in underserved areas,” Salako noted.

He added that the National Eye Health Programme—now renamed the National Eye, Ear and Other Sensory Health Programme—will integrate eye care services into primary healthcare. Nurses and Community Health Extension Workers (CHEW) will be trained to identify, assess, and refer eye conditions.

In his opening address, Dr. Obinna Edwin Awiaka, the Registrar and CEO of ODORBN, described the Eyeball Summit 2025 as a milestone in advancing vision care in Nigeria.

“This summit is not just an event; it is a testament to our collective commitment and aspiration to enhance the gift of sight for all Nigerians,” Awiaka stated.

He emphasized the need for the eye care sector to evolve with technological advancements while maintaining high ethical and professional standards.

“The theme of this summit speaks to a fundamental truth: transformative change in eye care can only be achieved through strategic alliances and collaboration across institutions and sectors,” he added.

Awiaka highlighted that the summit would serve as a platform for:

Intellectual exchange and brainstorming.

Forging meaningful collaborations and strategic alliances.

Reaffirming commitments to professional excellence and continuous learning.

Building stronger, more resilient eye care systems.