Victor Obuzor, the House of Representatives member for Ahoada West/Ogba Egbema/Ndoni, has revealed that the Nigerian government plans to expand the Federal Institute for Vision and Optical Research, initially established in Rivers State, to all six geopolitical zones in the country. The lawmaker, who sponsored the bill to create the institute, expressed optimism about the support the bill received during the public hearing at the National Assembly.
“The House is delighted with the bill and has requested that the institute be replicated in all six geopolitical zones, as it is one of a kind,” Obuzor said during a press briefing on Monday. He stressed that the establishment of the institute is an urgent necessity, particularly in light of the escalating prevalence of vision impairment across Nigeria.
With an estimated 50 million Nigerians suffering from visual disabilities, including over seven million who are already blind, the need for a comprehensive solution has never been more pressing. Obuzor called the proposed institute a crucial step towards addressing the growing public health challenge and ensuring a brighter future for citizens across the nation.
Obuzor also highlighted the increasing epidemic of vision disorders, worsened by limited access to ophthalmic care, especially in rural areas. He referenced projections from the World Health Organization that indicate the number of Nigerians affected by vision disorders could double by 2050 if immediate interventions are not implemented.
The bill also proposes the creation of the Federal College of Optometry, aimed at providing specialized courses and certifications in Optometry and related fields. Obuzor emphasized that any government’s goal should be to ensure the health and well-being of its citizens, making the development of optometric infrastructure a priority. “Without the eyes, life and living would be difficult,” he stated.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, offered strong support for the bill, noting that its passage would address the current gap in scientific research and development in vision healthcare. It would also help increase the number of qualified professionals and establish more specialized eye care facilities throughout Nigeria.
In his remarks, Hon. Alex Egbona, Chairman of the Committee on Specialty Healthcare, expressed his backing for the initiative, emphasizing that the bills aim to improve public access to healthcare, particularly in the areas of eye care, vision, and optical health.
If passed into law, the proposed Federal Institute for Vision and Optical Research could play a pivotal role in reducing vision-related disabilities in Nigeria, particularly in underserved regions, and enhancing the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.
