Salary of Optometrists in Nigeria (2024)

Optometry has emerged as one of the most sought-after medical professions in Nigeria, capturing the interest of many individuals aspiring for a rewarding career in eye care. Apart from the inherent appeal of working in the medical field, the monthly salaries associated with optometry make it an attractive choice for many. In this blog post, we will delve into the salaries of optometrists in Nigeria, the factors influencing their earnings, and the steps involved in becoming a certified optometrist.

Optometrist Salaries in Nigeria

Determining the exact salary of an optometrist in Nigeria can be challenging, as it depends on various factors such as the place of work, years of experience, and sometimes, location. On average, entry-level optometrists in private hospitals and optometry clinics earn around N100,000, while those in government hospitals receive a higher average of N150,000. The salary trajectory is influenced by the number of years in the profession, with a noticeable boost typically occurring after at least five years of experience.

Employment type is another crucial factor affecting income. Optometrists who are self-employed or in partnerships may experience more varied salaries due to several contributing factors.

Steps to Become an Optometrist in Nigeria

1. Be Certified: The journey to becoming a certified optometrist starts with obtaining the necessary qualifications. Aspiring optometrists need to have a Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) with a minimum credit pass in major science courses, including English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Successful completion of the compulsory UTME and post-UTME screening exercises is also required for admission to an optometry program, which typically lasts between 5 to 6 years in a university.
2. House Job (Internship): Similar to other medical professions, a one-year house job or internship is mandatory for newly inducted optometrists. The compensation for house officers varies, with an average payment of around N100,000. Federal or teaching hospitals may offer higher remuneration compared to state hospitals. The competition for house job slots often leads to paper tests to streamline candidates.
3. NYSC (National Youth Service Corps): Following the house job, optometrists, like all graduates, are required to undergo the compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program. During this period, they are posted to local hospitals or clinics, with some opting for private hospitals due to potentially higher pay. Many government hospitals may not provide payment during this service year.

Universities Offering Optometry in Nigeria

Several universities in Nigeria offer optometry programs. Some of them include:

• Abia State University, Uturu
• Bayero University, Kano
• Federal University of Technology, Owerri
• Imo State University, Owerri
• Madonna University, Okija
• University of Benin, Benin City
• University of Ilorin, Ilorin

Optometry is a highly productive and lucrative field within the medical sector. Optometrists specialize in vision care, conducting eye examinations, diagnosing vision issues, and prescribing eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed. They play a crucial role in analyzing and recommending solutions for vision problems. With the increasing prevalence of eye-related issues, the significance of optometrists cannot be overstated.

Optometrists can work in various professional contexts, collaborating with ophthalmologists and recommending the use of glasses or contact lenses. Some optometrists advance their studies to specialize in artificial lenses and laser surgery. Many optometrists in Nigeria prefer working in government hospitals and clinics due to attractive salaries, opportunities for growth, and a perceived higher level of exposure and learning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Optometry stands out as a promising and rewarding career path in Nigeria, offering both financial stability and the opportunity to make a significant impact on individuals’ eye health. Aspiring optometrists can follow the outlined steps to embark on this fulfilling journey and contribute to the growing demand for eye care professionals in the country.