A cross-section of the optometry students at the event.
By Ita Williams, Calabar
The management of Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State, has commissioned a multi-million-naira optometry clinic designed to transform eye-care training and service delivery in the Niger Delta.
The facility, supported by Optometry Giving Sight (OGS) and implemented by Charis Vision and Health Mission (CharisHealth), was officially unveiled on Wednesday.
The commissioning formed part of a three-day programme that also featured the induction of seven new Doctors of Optometry at a ceremony held on Thursday at Transcorp Hotel, Calabar.
The initiative has been described as one of the most significant investments in optometry education in the South-South region.
Speaking at the unveiling, the CEO of CharisHealth and facilitator of the OGS grant, Dr. Anne Ebri Ekong, said the project was conceived to strengthen optometry education at Arthur Jarvis University through modern equipment, trainer support and community outreach.
“The Niger Delta is underserved. Despite a combined population exceeding 25 million people across Cross River, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa and Ebonyi states, the region still suffers a severe shortage of optometrists,” she said.
“This project aims to increase the number of qualified optometrists and tackle eye-health challenges, especially in communities where cultural beliefs stop people from seeking care.”
She added that at least 8,000 residents are expected to directly benefit from the intervention.
According to her, the clinic will serve as both a training facility and a community health centre.
“Don’t say it’s students that will attend to you,” she said. “We have qualified optometrists and senior lecturers providing services. Some of the equipment here are not available in certain teaching hospitals.”
Registrar/CEO of the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria, Dr. Obinna Awiaka, described the project as a “historic investment” in Nigeria’s health sector.
“This woman could have diverted the funds, but she chose to write her name in gold. Hundreds of millions have been invested in this community,” he said.
He urged the Akpabuyo Local Government to improve access roads and sensitise residents to utilise the facility, noting that optometry remains one of the most sought-after professions globally.
Representing the Akpabuyo Chairman, Hon. Effiong Bassey, commended the initiative and pledged continued government support.
At the induction ceremony, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Joe Edet, described the event as a defining moment for the institution.
“Today is not just about completing a programme; it is a celebration of commitment, perseverance and character,” he said.
The highlight of the day’s event was the award presented to Dr Adams Brayn Akiba, recognized as the Best Graduating Optometry Student for the 2024/2025 academic session.
The gathering, which brought together scholars, health experts, traditional rulers and community figures, was charged with optimism.
Many guests hailed the milestone as “a new dawn for eye care in the Niger Delta region,”
