Becoming an optometrist in Nigeria is a rewarding career path for those passionate about eye care. Optometrists are trained health professionals who diagnose, treat, and manage various eye conditions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to follow to become a licensed optometrist in Nigeria.
Step 1: Understand What Optometry Is
Before pursuing a career in optometry, it’s essential to understand the field. Optometry is the practice of examining, diagnosing, and treating patients with visual disorders and other eye-related issues.
Optometrists prescribe corrective lenses, recommend treatments for certain eye conditions, and refer patients to specialists when necessary.
Optometry is a vital part of healthcare in Nigeria as it addresses growing concerns related to vision impairment and eye health, especially in rural areas.
Step 2: Obtain the Necessary Educational Qualifications
It is essential to obtain the following necessary educational qualification:
a. Complete Secondary School Education
The first step is to complete your secondary school education with a strong foundation in science subjects. You should focus on excelling in the following subjects:
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
These subjects are crucial because they form the core of the optometry degree curriculum.
b. Pass the UTME Exam
After completing secondary school, the next step is to register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), commonly known as JAMB in Nigeria. You will need to select relevant courses such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and English.
c. Choose the Right University
Once you pass the UTME, select a Nigerian university offering a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) or Doctor of Optometry (OD) program. Some of the top universities in Nigeria offering optometry include:
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Imo State University (IMSU)
- Abia State University (ABSU)
- Madonna University
These universities have accredited optometry programs and offer both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in optometry.
See also: Best Ranked Nigerian Universities 2024/2025
d. Enroll in a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) or Doctor of Optometry (OD) Program
Optometry programs in Nigeria typically last five to six years, depending on the university. These programs cover both theoretical and practical aspects of optometry. You will study courses such as:
- Anatomy of the eye
- Ophthalmic optics
- Visual sciences
- Clinical optometry
- Optometric instrumentation
Optometry programs also include clinical internships where students gain hands-on experience working with patients under the supervision of licensed optometrists.
Step 3: Complete an Internship Program
After obtaining your degree in optometry, you are required to complete a one-year compulsory internship. This internship allows you to gain practical experience working in clinics, hospitals, or other eye care facilities under the supervision of experienced professionals.
The internship will help you develop the necessary skills to diagnose and treat patients, manage clinical settings, and operate optometry equipment.
Step 4: Register with the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN)
After completing your internship, you must be registered with the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN) to legally practice as an optometrist. ODORBN is the regulatory body responsible for ensuring that optometrists in Nigeria meet the necessary standards of practice.
To register, you will need to:
- Complete the ODORBN application form
- Provide proof of your optometry degree
- Submit your internship completion certificate
- Pay the required registration fees
Once registered, you will be issued a license to practice as a certified optometrist in Nigeria.
Step 5: Undertake the Mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Program
All Nigerian graduates are required to participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program for one year. During this period, you may be posted to serve in an eye clinic, hospital, or other healthcare facility where your optometry skills will be put to use.
The NYSC program is not only mandatory but also offers you the opportunity to gain additional experience in eye care while contributing to the healthcare system in Nigeria.
Step 6: Stay Updated with Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Optometry, like many healthcare fields, is continuously evolving due to advancements in technology and research. To remain relevant and effective in your practice, it is important to participate in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs.
ODORBN requires all licensed optometrists to earn CPD points by attending workshops, conferences, seminars, and other training programs. Staying updated ensures that you provide the best care to your patients and remain compliant with the regulatory requirements.
Step 7: Explore Career Opportunities
Once you are fully licensed, you can explore various career paths in optometry, including:
- Private practice: Opening your own optometry clinic or partnering with other healthcare professionals.
- Hospitals and clinics: Working in eye clinics, government hospitals, or private healthcare centers.
- Academia: Teaching optometry in universities or conducting research in the field.
- Corporate organizations: Many companies hire optometrists to provide eye care services to their employees.
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Become an Optometrist in Nigeria
What subjects should I focus on in secondary school to become an optometrist?
How long does it take to become an optometrist in Nigeria?
What universities in Nigeria offer optometry programs?
Do I need to register with a regulatory body to practice optometry in Nigeria?
Is an internship required to become an optometrist in Nigeria?
What are the career opportunities for optometrists in Nigeria?
Conclusion
Becoming an optometrist in Nigeria requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to providing quality eye care. By following the steps outlined in this guide—completing your education, gaining practical experience, obtaining your license, and continuously improving your skills—you can build a successful and rewarding career in optometry.
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