The Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) Edo State Chapter, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary, Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, (EDSPHCDA) Dr. Coulson Oahimire Osoikhia, to advocate for the integration of Optometrists into primary health care facilities across the state.
The visit, which took place at the Agency’s office on Ezoti Street, Benin City, on 25th June, 2026, was led Dr. Charles Eguavoen, Chairman, Nigerian Optometric Association, Edo State Chapter, who was accompanied by a team of Optometry professionals.
Speaking on the purpose of the visit, Dr. Eguavoen called on the Agency to engage resident Optometrists at the Local Government level, noting that their presence in PHC facilities would help in the early detection, management, and referral of eye conditions, especially among residents in rural communities. He noted that this would help reduce pressure on tertiary health facilities and strengthen access to eye care services at the grassroots.
In his response, the Executive Secretary, EDSPHCDA Dr. Coulson Oahimire Oshoikhia acknowledged the importance of optometry in strengthening primary healthcare delivery.
Dr. Oahimire welcomed the advocacy and promised collaboration between the Agency and NOA Edo State. He disclosed that an optometrist in the Agency has already been assigned to Ekiosa Primary Health Center and is expected to cover Ugbegun and Oluku Primary Health Centers.
He also expressed displeasure over reports of unapproved optometric outreaches in PHCs by Optometrists not registered with the NOA, Edo State. He directed that such cases be reported to the Agency immediately, to ensure oversight and accountability.