By Solomon Azu
The Nigerian Optometric Association, NOA, Cross River State Chapter, has raised alarm over growing quackery in eye care delivery, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Chairperson of association, Dr. Ogechi Cecilia Chukwu, raised concern on Monday during advocacy visit to the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Cross River Council, in Calabar ahead of World Sight Day 2026.
Chukwu said when qualified eye-care services are unavailable, people become vulnerable to unqualified persons who provide inappropriate examinations and treatment, describing the development as a serious public-health and patient-safety issue.
READ ALSO: DPO, two other officers under probe over disappearance of armed robbery suspect
“When qualified eye-care services are unavailable, people become vulnerable to unqualified persons who may provide inappropriate eye examinations or treatment. This is a serious public-health issue,” she said.
She appealed to the media to help educate Cross Riverians to seek eye care only from qualified and licensed professionals and amplify the dangers of patronizing quacks.
She disclosed that World Sight Day 2026, slated for Thursday, 8th October, with the theme “Love Your Eyes,” will focus on teachers and eye health.
According to her, teachers are often first to notice when a child is struggling to see the board or read effectively, but they also need good vision to teach effectively.
“That is why we are planning eye-health education and vision screening for teachers as part of our World Sight Day activities,” she said.
The association urged NUJ to support by creating public awareness on the importance of regular eye examination, amplifying teacher-focused activities, educating the public on dangers of quackery and advocating for employment of more qualified Optometrists in rural communities.
She noted that Cross River currently has only two Optometrists in state civil service, a situation she said worsens an access gap.
“We respectfully ask NUJ to advocate for employment of more qualified Optometrists especially in rural communities,” Chukwu pleaded.
She invited NUJ Chairman to join LoveYourEyes movement by pledging to love her eyes, prioritise eye health and support efforts to make quality eye care accessible to all Cross Riverians.
Responding, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey assured the association of council’s support in public enlightenment and advocacy for improved eye care services.
