Federal College of Optometry, Odiokwu (Establishment) Bill

Federal College of Optometry, Odiokwu (Establishment) Bill Policy Overview

What Is This Policy?

A legislative bill to establish a federal college dedicated to training optometry professionals in Odiokwu, addressing Nigeria's critical shortage of qualified optometrists, particularly in underserved regions.

Who Does It Target?

Aspiring optometry and optician students Healthcare workforce planners and the Federal Ministry of Health Host communities in Odiokwu Optometry Council of Nigeria (OCN)

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Produce qualified optometrists to address the shortage of eye care professionals in Nigeria Provide affordable, federally-funded optometry training in an underserved region Align training standards with Optometry Council of Nigeria requirements Improve eye health outcomes through a better-trained workforce

Key Features

Current Status

Funding: Federal Government recurrent and capital budget; TETFund subventions

How to Access

Admission via JAMB UTME upon commencement of operations. Requirements: Five O-Level credits including Biology, Physics/Chemistry, and English JAMB score at or above designated cut-off Medical fitness declaration Application method: JAMB portal upon establishment of the college

Important Terms

Graduates may be required to serve in federal health facilities for 2 years post-graduation (bond terms to be defined in enabling legislation)

Impact & Metrics

Nigeria has fewer than 5,000 registered optometrists for a population of 220+ million, among the lowest ratios globally.

Official Resources

Website: www.fmoh.gov.ng | www.education.gov.ng Contact: Federal Ministry of Health — [email protected] Federal Republic of Nigeria — Policy Summary Document | March 2026

Legal Framework

Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999; Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians (Registration, etc.) Act; National Health Act 2014; National Board for Technical Education Act