Cross River Deputy Governor Play Host to Optometrists ahead of National Conference.

The Cross River State Deputy Governor, Prof Ivara Ejemot Esu has reaffirmed his commitment to creating conducive atmosphere for Optometrist to thrive and thereby contribute to the socioeconomic development of the state through their free vision screening.

Prof Esu stated this while playing host to the Leadership of Nigerian Optometric Association and the Local Organising Committee for 2019 Annual National Conference led by the National Vice President South, Dr. Dania Afe. The Deputy Governor noted the state Government was aware of the importance of the Conference and its benefits to Cross Riverians.

He assured his visitors that efforts were being geared towards the provision of the ambience for a successful National Conference while acknowledging the enviable role and contributions of the association to the development of Cross River State.

Earlier Speaking the National Vice President South, Dania Afe commended Cross River State Government for its giant efforts in offering eye care. He called on the state to employ more optometrists as the 5 in the ministry of health was inadequate to take eye care everywhere. Hence he asked for 13 more optometrists to be employed so that each Local Government Area has at least one optometrist. He further appealed that a department of optometry be opened in one of the universities in the state to develop local manpower.

Also speaking, the LOC Chairperson Dr. Bernadine Ekpenyong eulogised the developmental and industrialisation drive of the administration. She commended the State Government for being friendly towards eye care, giving eye care NGOs the conducive environment to operate in the state.

She appealed for support in terms of transportation and accommodation for the National Executive Council and delegates feeding, media coverage and the closing dinner. She added that as a corporate social responsibility the association will conduct free eye screening and treatment on Wednesday, 17th July 2019.

In recognition of the huge impact of the the Cross River State Eye care program, which has helped thousands of persons across the country to assess eye care, including free treatment for children, the Nigerian Optometric Association saw it befitting to honour the digital Governor with the award of Ambassador of Eye care. This award would be given at the Opening Ceremony of the conference on Thursday, 18th July 2019 at the Calabar International Convention Centre CICC.