Members of the Nigeria Optometric Association (NOA) have called on Nigerians especially policymakers and healthcare providers to prioritize the well-being of citizens above professional titles or hierarchy.
They emphasized that such a shift is essential for Nigeria to effectively navigate the evolving global health landscape and its complex challenges.
In a statement jointly signed by Dr. Ishaq Muhammed Jamiu Omeiza and Dr. Mohammed Ahmad and made available to newsmen the optometrists highlighted how developed countries pay close attention to the needs of their populations, especially underserved communities, reflecting a clear commitment to progress and equitable healthcare delivery.
They stressed the importance of placing patient care at the center of medical practice, rather than allowing the pursuit of financial gain or status to overshadow professional responsibilities. According to them, healthcare workers focused solely on titles or power often reveal a disconnect from the latest global trends and innovations in medical practice.
The NOA members also commended the National Universities Commission (NUC) for its recent decision to upgrade the academic titles of Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, and Optometry degree programmes from bachelor’s degrees to “Doctor” status in Nigerian universities.
This decision, however, was met with opposition from the Executive Council of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), which had urged the NUC to reconsider the change.
In response, the NOA members argued that such resistance undermines the contributions of other healthcare professionals in the public sector. They claimed it risks devaluing their roles in the eyes of the government, patients, and the general public despite their critical involvement in patient care and management.
Dr. Omeiza and Dr. Ahmad, who are both Residency Students at the Nigerian Post-Graduate College of Optometrists, urged general practitioners, resident doctors, and their allied associations to stay informed about global advancements in healthcare.
They emphasized that embracing progress and collaboration not competition will ultimately strengthen Nigeria’s health system and improve outcomes for all citizens.
