The President, Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA), Dr. Chimeziri Anderson, has tasked optometrists to reposition optometry as a central pillar of sensory and public health, aside from advocating boldly, innovating courageously, and serving compassionately, especially the underserved.

Speaking at the Nigerian Optometric Association Western Zone Conference, themed, ‘Catalyst for Clarity: How Optometrists Can Shape Sensory Health and Human Potential,’ in Lagos, Anderson noted that vision is not merely about sight, but about learning, productivity, safety, and quality of life, which is why optometrists must shape a future where the profession is recognised not only as eye care professionals, but as architects of human potential.

He insisted that sensory health, particularly visual health, is foundational to human potential.

He added: “From classrooms and workplaces to our roads and digital economy, optometrists are enablers of human capacity and contributors to national development.

“Globally, optometry has evolved beyond refractive services to include primary eye care, early disease detection, pediatric and geriatric care, vision therapy, occupational and sports vision, and the management of digital eye strain. Nigeria must not be left behind.

“Expanding the scope of optometric practice is not about professional rivalry, but about closing healthcare gaps, reducing avoidable blindness, and strengthening primary healthcare delivery. The NOA remains committed to working with government, regulators, and sister professions to achieve policies aligned with global best practices.”

Anderson stated that as catalysts for clarity, optometrists must embrace research, innovation, digital health, and collaboration.

“We must generate evidence that demonstrates the impact of optometry on education outcomes, road safety, productivity, and public health.”

Also speaking, the Vice President, Western Zone, NOA, Dr. Raymond Chinonso Aguboshim, said that 80 per cent of information human beings process daily come through the eyes, which means that as custodians of the key to optimal vision, optometrists are guardians of human development and functionality.

“What appears to the ordinary mind as simple eye examination, a simple pair of corrective lenses, eye drops, vision training, counselling or referral, among others, can be the difference between a fulfilled life and frustration.

“Literally, the eyes are referred to as the body’s window and also to the soul. However, an in-depth understanding from an optometrist perspective will firmly convince you that the eyes are much more; they are actually the window to a person’s world, potential and capacity.

“When we provide a child with his/her first pair of glasses, we are not just clearing vision, we are catalysing a path to education, worthwhile living and fulfillment. To the tailor who cannot fix a thread to a needle without a pair of glasses, we are the key to economic development and prosperity. Detecting a disease condition such as diabetes or hypertension through a comprehensive eye examination can be the difference between continued healthy living and morbidity/mortality.”

In her goodwill message, the Special Adviser to Lagos Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, noted that the conference’s theme is both timely and profound, as it highlights the critical role that optometrists play in safeguarding vision, improving quality of life, and unlocking the full potential of individuals and communities.

Ogunyemi, represented by Dr. Oluwatoni Adeyemi, Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Health, added that: “Vision is central to human development. From childhood learning and productivity in adulthood to healthy aging, clear vision is fundamental to wellbeing and socioeconomic advancement.

“Optometrists therefore occupy a very strategic position within the health system, serving as frontline professionals in the prevention, detection, and management of eye conditions.

“The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Mr. Governor, remains firmly committed to strengthening healthcare delivery across all sectors, including eye health. We recognise that effective eye care services are essential for achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that no citizen is left behind due to preventable or treatable vision impairment.”