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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has reaffirmed the House’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services, particularly in the field of eye care.
Speaking at a public hearing organized by the House Committee on Specialty Healthcare in Abuja, Abbas, represented by the Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Rep. George Ozodinobi, emphasized the House’s dedication to advancing legislation that would enhance vision and optical health across the country.
During the hearing, lawmakers considered three key bills aimed at improving eye healthcare services. One of the proposed laws seeks to establish the Federal Institute of Vision and Optical Research in Erema, Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni LGA, Rivers State.
The institute is expected to focus on scientific research and technological innovations in eye care. Another bill proposes setting up the Federal College of Optometry in Odiokwu, Ahoada West/Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, Rivers State, to train professionals in optometry, ophthalmology, and related disciplines.
The third bill aims to amend the National Eye Centre Act to allow for the creation of more specialist eye care centres nationwide.
Abbas commended the Specialty Healthcare Committee for its dedication to improving healthcare and assured that the House would give necessary legislative backing to the proposed initiatives. The committee’s chairman, Rep. Alex Egbona, reiterated the importance of quality healthcare and pledged a thorough review of the bills to ensure their effectiveness in addressing eye health challenges.
Rep. Victor Obuzor, who sponsored the bills, underscored the urgent need for improved eye care services in Nigeria. He pointed out that the country’s first optometry program was introduced at the University of Benin in 1976, yet eye diseases remain a significant health concern. He stressed that the establishment of specialized eye care centres is essential in tackling vision-related issues and ensuring better healthcare delivery for Nigerians.
