The President of Nigerian Optometric Association, Dr. Anderson Chimeziri has advised the new doctors to adhere strictly to the guidelines outlined in the federal scheme of service and refrain from engaging in activities beyond their scope of competence. He made this known at the
at the 29th Induction/Oath-taking ceremony of the 2022/2023 Batch of Optometry Doctors at Abia State University Uturu (ABSU).
While congratulating the 94 newly inducted doctors of Optometry; he emphasized the importance of professionalism, integrity, and continuous learning in their careers as optometrists.
The NOA President also highlighted the various welfare initiatives the association is formulating for optometrists and encouraged the new doctors to participate in advocacy efforts by associating themselves with NOA chapters in their respective locations.
Furthermore, Dr. Chimeziri presented an accolade from the NOA to the most distinguished clinician and a monetary prize of ₦50,000 as part of Leadership Award to the former President of the Nigeria Optometric Students Association, ABSU chapter who was also inducted. This gesture was a testament to the NOA’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence in the field of optometry.
The induction ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the Vice-Chancellor of ABSU, Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor J.U Ogbonna, and the Registrar of the Optometrist and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN), Dr. Obinna Awiaka, represented by Professor Emma Esenwa. The event marked a significant milestone in the careers of the new doctors of optometry, and the NOA’s participation underscored the organization’s commitment to supporting the development of optometry in Nigeria.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo, congratulated the new doctors of optometry on their academic achievement, which he described as a testament to their hard work, sacrifice, and determination. He encouraged them to uphold the highest ethical standards in their profession and reminded them that the world is counting on them to bring light to those struggling with vision challenges.
The Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, Professor Chris Timothy, and the Head, Department of Optometry, Dr. Andrew Omaka, noted that ABSU holds a historic record as the first university in Africa to establish a faculty of optometry, thereby reinforcing its leadership in optometry education. They emphasized that the induction ceremony was a testament to years of dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor and Administrator, Eye Health Management Bureau, Dr. (Mrs.) Betty Emeka-Obasi, highlighted the giant strides made by the Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, in prioritizing the eye health of Abians. She noted that the Eye Health Management Bureau established by the Governor has helped strengthen the optometry practice in the state.
The best graduating student, Dr. James Ogba, delivered a valedictory speech, thanking the university, lecturers, parents, friends, and well-wishers for their support. He assured that the new doctors of optometry would not disappoint and would make a positive impact in their communities.
The Vice-Chancellor in his closing remarks admonished Optometrists to memorize their NOA anthem and know it as is dome by other professions. He observed that while NOA anthem was song many including the new inductees were silent as it was obvious they did not learn or memorize it.
He said the anthem lyrics captured the emotion of the profession and praise NOA for the have such anthem.
The former Dean and winner of the Best Lecturer of the Faculty of Optometry, Professor O.C. Ahuama, gave a vote of thanks, appreciating all who graced the occasion and charging the new doctors to remain good ambassadors of the university.
The high point of the event was the administration of the oath on the new doctors of optometry and the presentation of awards. The ceremony was a celebration of academic excellence, professionalism, and the commitment to delivering quality eye care services to the community.
Dr.Okechukwu Egboluche
National Public Relations Officer, Nigerian Optometric Association