See How Much is Optometrists’ Salary in Nigeria (2024)
Optometrists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders, including prescribing corrective lenses and providing vision therapy. They play an essential role in maintaining the eye health of individuals, and their services are in high demand in Nigeria. Optometry is a lucrative profession in Nigeria, and the salary structure of optometrists varies depending on several factors.
Optometrists who work in urban areas tend to earn higher salaries than those in rural areas. Additionally, optometrists with advanced degrees and certifications tend to earn more than those with basic qualifications. This post provides the amount Optometrists earn as salary in Nigeria this 2023.
THE PROFESSION OF OPTOMETRY IN NIGERIA
Optometry is a healthcare profession that deals with the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of visual problems and eye diseases. Optometrists are trained professionals who provide primary eye care services to patients. In Nigeria, optometry is a regulated profession that requires a degree in optometry from a recognized institution and registration with the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN).
Optometrists in Nigeria have several responsibilities, including conducting comprehensive eye tests and examinations, prescribing corrective lenses, diagnosing and managing eye diseases, and providing pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing eye surgery. They also work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as ophthalmologists and general practitioners, to ensure patients receive the best possible care.
The course of study for optometry in Nigeria typically takes five years and includes a combination of science and clinical courses, such as anatomy, physiology, optics, physics, and clinical optometry. After completing their degree, optometrists are required to undertake a one-year internship before they can register with the ODORBN and begin practicing as licensed optometrists.
Optometry is a constantly evolving field, with new technologies and treatment methods being developed all the time. Optometrists in Nigeria are required to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in their field to ensure they provide the best possible care to their patients. As such, continuing education is a vital part of the practice of optometry in Nigeria.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR OPTOMETRISTS
To become an optometrist in Nigeria, one must complete a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program from a recognized university. The program typically takes four years to complete and includes both classroom and clinical training.
During the first two years of the program, students learn about the basic sciences such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, as well as optics and visual science. In the final two years, students are trained in clinical skills, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of eye disorders.
To be eligible for the OD program, students must have completed a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. Some universities may also require students to have completed certain prerequisite courses before admission.
After completing the OD program, graduates are required to undergo a one-year internship program in a recognized hospital or clinic. The internship program provides practical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders under the supervision of experienced optometrists.
Following the internship program, graduates may opt to pursue a residency program to gain further specialization in a particular area of optometry. Residency programs typically last for one to two years and provide advanced training in areas such as pediatric optometry, geriatric optometry, and ocular disease.
Some universities in Nigeria that offer OD programs include Abia State University, Uturu, Bayero University, Kano, and Federal University of Technology, Akure. Upon completion of the OD program and internship, graduates can register with the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN) to practice as optometrists in Nigeria.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF OPTOMETRISTS
Optometrists are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating visual problems and eye diseases. They are responsible for providing primary vision care to patients and play a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Optometrists work in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, clinics, and retail stores.
The roles and responsibilities of optometrists include:
- Performing comprehensive eye exams to diagnose visual problems, refractive errors, and eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataract.
- Prescribing eyeglass lenses, contact lenses, and other visual aids to correct vision problems.
- Providing low vision rehabilitation to patients with visual impairments.
- Diagnosing and managing eye diseases and referring patients to ophthalmologists for further treatment when necessary.
- Prescribing medications to treat eye conditions and providing pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing eye surgery.
- Educating patients on proper eye care and hygiene, including the use of contact lenses and eyeglass frames.
- Maintaining accurate records of patient eye exams, prescriptions, and treatments.
Optometrists are also responsible for staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in eye care and technology. They must complete continuing education courses to maintain their licenses and stay current with the latest research and treatments in the field.
HOW MUCH OPTOMETRISTS EARN AS SALARY IN NIGERIA
Optometrists are eye care professionals who are responsible for diagnosing and treating eye problems. They work in various settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. The salary structure of optometrists in Nigeria varies based on several factors such as experience, location, and employer.
According to recent data, the average salary of an optometrist in Nigeria is around ₦1,090,000 per month. This figure varies based on the level of experience, with entry-level optometrists earning between ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 in private hospitals and optometry clinics, while the salary of optometrists in government hospitals is between ₦150,000 – ₦230,000 or more.
In addition to the base salary, optometrists in Nigeria may also receive bonuses, which range from ₦30,000 – ₦350,000. The bonus amount depends on the employer and the performance of the optometrist. Optometrists may also receive other benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.
It is important to note that optometrists in Nigeria are required to complete a one-year housemanship programme after graduation. During this period, they earn a housemanship salary, which is typically lower than the salary of a fully qualified optometrist.
Compared to other healthcare professions in Nigeria, optometrists earn a decent income. For example, nurses in Nigeria earn an average salary of around ₦80,000 per month, while public health professionals earn around ₦150,000 per month. Taxify drivers make an average of ₦30,000 per week, while Nigerian Navy officers earn between ₦120,000 – ₦250,000 per month. NNPC salary structure and investment bankers’ salary in Nigeria vary depending on the level and position of the employee. Civil engineering salary in Nigeria is also dependent on the level of experience and location.
FACTORS INFLUENCING SALARY
Several factors can influence an Optometrist’s salary in Nigeria. These factors include:
- EXPERIENCE
Experience is a significant factor that determines an Optometrist’s salary in Nigeria. Optometrists with more years of experience tend to earn higher salaries than those with less experience. This is because experienced Optometrists have acquired more skills and knowledge, making them more valuable to employers.
- LOCATION
The location of an Optometrist’s practice can also influence their salary. Optometrists practicing in urban areas tend to earn more than those practicing in rural areas. This is because there is a higher demand for their services in urban areas, and the cost of living is generally higher.
- SPECIALIZATION
Optometrists who specialize in a particular area tend to earn more than those who offer general eye care services. Specialization requires additional training and expertise, making those with specialized skills more valuable to employers.
- GENERAL HEALTH
An Optometrist’s general health can also influence their salary. Optometrists who are in good health and can work for more extended periods tend to earn more than those with health issues that limit their ability to work.
COMPARISON WITH OTHER PROFESSIONS
When it comes to salaries, optometrists in Nigeria earn a decent income, but how do their salaries compare to other professions? Let’s take a look at some other professions and their salaries in Nigeria.
- MEDICAL DOCTORS
Medical doctors are among the highest-paid professionals in Nigeria. According to recent reports, the average salary of a medical doctor in Nigeria is around NGN 500,000 to NGN 1,000,000 per month, depending on their level of experience and expertise.
- MEDICINE PROFESSION
The medicine profession is a highly respected and well-paying profession in Nigeria. A medical consultant in Nigeria can earn up to NGN 15,000,000 per annum, while a resident doctor can earn up to NGN 5,000,000 per annum.
- MASS COMMUNICATION
Mass communication is a popular profession in Nigeria, and it is also a well-paying one. The average salary of a mass communication professional in Nigeria is around NGN 400,000 to NGN 800,000 per annum, depending on their level of experience.
- NIGERIAN PILOT
Nigerian pilots are among the highest-paid professionals in Nigeria. The average salary of a Nigerian pilot is around NGN 500,000 to NGN 1,500,000 per month, depending on their level of experience and the airline they work for.
- PETROLEUM ENGINEERING
Petroleum engineering is a highly specialized and well-paying profession in Nigeria. The average salary of a petroleum engineer in Nigeria is around NGN 500,000 to NGN 2,000,000 per month, depending on their level of experience and the company they work for.
- MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Mechanical engineering is a popular and well-paying profession in Nigeria. The average salary of a mechanical engineer in Nigeria is around NGN 300,000 to NGN 800,000 per month, depending on their level of experience and the company they work for.
- PUBLIC HEALTH
Public health is a growing profession in Nigeria, and it is also a well-paying one. The average salary of a public health professional in Nigeria is around NGN 400,000 to NGN 800,000 per annum, depending on their level of experience and the organization they work for.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the salary structure of optometrists in Nigeria is quite competitive, with a wide range of earnings depending on the location and type of employment. It is important to note that the salaries of optometrists in Nigeria are influenced by various factors such as years of experience, level of education, and skills. Optometrists with advanced qualifications and skills tend to earn higher salaries than those with basic qualifications and skills.