Women Optometrists Target Rural Areas With Eye Care Services

The Women Optometrists in Nigeria (WON), the leading organisation for female optometrists nationwide, has announced its commitment to deliver complementary eye care services to rural communities throughout Nigeria in the forthcoming months and years.

At the opening ceremony of the Women Optometrists in Nigeria conference and gala held in Abuja over the weekend, WON president Dr. Ogechi Nwokedi emphasized the group’s goals, which will be advanced through robust local and international partnerships.

Dr Nwokedi noted that the conference theme, “The Azure Woman: A Soaring Professional,” aptly encapsulates the organisation’s mission to empower its members to achieve new heights in their professional and personal endeavours.

She said, “The selection of this theme prompts us to reflect on our journey, our potential, and the future of our profession.

Our association was founded to address the needs of underserved populations, particularly women and children in remote areas.”

Her remarks underscored the organisation’s vision of sight conservation, ensuring that even the most isolated communities receive necessary care, irrespective of gender or affiliation.

“Our initiatives are executed across Nigeria by women optometrists who volunteer their time and resources. Over the years, we have reached millions of underprivileged Nigerians through free eye care services, including vision screenings, free spectacles, eye medications, and public education on eye health, while also addressing critical issues affecting women and children in our pursuit of broader outreach.”

Dr. Nwokedi reflected on the organisation’s inaugural conference two years prior, highlighting its commitment to fostering excellence, resilience, and impactful professionalism among its members.

She stated, “The past two years have been filled with initiatives focused on grassroots eye care, including community and school health projects, health education, capacity building, and personal and professional development for our members. We look forward to further collaborations to enhance eye care services in our local communities.”

“Today, women optometrists have gathered once more to learn, share knowledge, support one another, network, and rejuvenate,” she added, reaffirming their dedication to pursuing their goals with unwavering strength and determination.

Dr. Obinna Edwin Awiaka, registrar of the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN), urged WON members to seek mentors for guidance and to mentor the next generation of women optometrists.

“By sharing your experiences and insights, you can cultivate a supportive network that uplifts others,” he advised.

“True leadership transcends titles; it involves inspiring positive change and empowering those around you. As women in healthcare, your leadership is vital. You bring a unique perspective, empathy, and problem-solving skills essential for fostering impactful leadership.”

He encouraged the members to embrace technology and innovation, leveraging their problem-solving abilities to better serve underserved communities.

The conference drew representatives from various professional bodies and government agencies, including a message from the Mandate Secretary of the Women Affairs Federal Capital Territory Administration.

Event highlights included conferring the Eye Care Ambassador title to Her Excellency Prof. Farauta, the deputy governor of Adamawa State, among others.