- By Caleb Okechukwu
Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), has inducted 125 new Doctors of Optometry at its 30th induction and oath-taking ceremony for the 2023/2024 graduating set, held on 12th December, 2025.
Declaring the ceremony open, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Ndukwe J. Okeudo, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Roseline Ndimele, charged the graduating optometrists to uphold professionalism and remain worthy ambassadors of their alma mater. He described the induction as the beginning of a noble and fulfilling career in healthcare.
The Vice Chancellor, reminded the graduates that society looks up to them to bring light and hope to people with vision challenges. He also appreciated parents, lecturers and other stakeholders who contributed to their training.
Speaking at the event, the Registrar of the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN), Dr Obinna Awiaka, described ABSU as the flagship of optometry education in Africa and urged the inductees to strictly adhere to the ethics of the profession.
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In separate remarks, the Provost of the College of Medicine, Prof. Chuks Kamanu, represented by Prof. A. A. Nwankwo; the Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof. Chris Timothy; and the Head of the Department of Optometry, Dr Andrew Omaka, noted that ABSU holds the historic record as the first university in Africa to establish a Faculty of Optometry. They said the induction marked the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance and commitment to academic excellence by the graduates.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor and Administrator of the Eye Health Management Bureau, Dr Betty Emeka-Obasi, highlighted the strides made by Governor Alex Otti, in prioritising eye health in the state. She said the establishment of the Eye Health Management Bureau has strengthened optometry practice and eye care delivery in the state.
The best graduating student, Dr Victoria Nnoli, thanked the university and parents for their support and solid academic foundation, pledging that the graduates would continue to uphold the good image of ABSU.
Former Dean and winner of the Best Lecturer Award in the Faculty of Optometry, Prof. O. C. Ahuama, thanked guests and stakeholders who graced the occasion and urged the new doctors to remain good ambassadors of the university.
Highlights of the ceremony included the administration of the professional oath on the inductees and the presentation of awards to deserving individuals.