The House of Representatives is pushing for the establishment of a Federal Institute for Vision and Optical Research in each of Nigeria’s six geo-political zones. This was disclosed by Victor Obuzor, the representative of Ahoada West/Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Federal Constituency, Rivers State.
Speaking to journalists at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Tuesday, Obuzor, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, emphasized the importance of the initiative. He noted that the widespread support for the proposed legislation, both during and after a recent public hearing at the National Assembly, underscored the necessity for expanding the institute nationwide.
“The House is delighted with the bill and has recommended that the institute, being the first of its kind, be replicated in the six geo-political zones,” he stated.
Obuzor stressed the urgent need for the institute, citing alarming statistics on vision impairment in Nigeria. “As guardians of public health, we must address the rising prevalence of vision impairment, especially in underserved communities. Currently, an estimated 50 million Nigerians are struggling with visual disabilities, while over seven million are already blind. The need for decisive action has never been more critical.”
He described the proposed institute as a crucial step in mitigating this growing public health challenge and ensuring a brighter future for Nigerians.
The lawmaker also highlighted projections by the World Health Organization, warning that without the right interventions, the number of people affected by vision disorders in Nigeria could double by 2050. “Vision disorders are reaching epidemic levels in Nigeria, worsened by limited access to ophthalmic care, especially in rural areas,” he added.
In addition to the vision institute bill, Obuzor is sponsoring another bill for the establishment of the Federal College of Optometry, which aims to provide degree, diploma, and certificate programs in optometry and related fields.
He noted that governments worldwide, including Nigeria, continue to prioritize healthcare funding, including eye care services, to ensure a healthy population. “The impact of optometric care is growing globally, and countries are investing heavily in infrastructure and human capital development to support vision healthcare. Without proper eye care, life becomes incredibly difficult,” he stated.
During the public hearing, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, assured that if passed into law, the bills would significantly improve scientific research and development in vision healthcare. He added that they would lead to a substantial increase in the number of qualified eye care professionals and the establishment of more specialized eye care facilities across the country.
