By Peter Omopo
Benin City, August 8, 2025 — The Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria on Friday inducted 105 fresh graduates of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) into the optometry profession.
The oath-taking and induction ceremony, held at the Akin Deko Auditorium, was presided over by the Board’s Registrar, Dr. Obinna Awiaka, who urged the new optometrists to embrace hard work, sacrifice, and professional ethics as they begin their one-year internship.
“As you step out, be aware that the journey ahead will be tougher than what you experienced in school,” Awiaka said. “Always uphold the tenets you have been trained with. Avoid putting money first; focus on your duties, and success will follow.”
UNIBEN Vice Chancellor, Prof. Edoba Omoregie — represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Christopher Osubor — congratulated the inductees and their families, pledging full institutional support for the newly created Faculty of Optometry.
Protem Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Ekinadoese Oghre, urged the graduates to be exemplary ambassadors of the university and to maintain strong ties with the institution. “Carry our flag high, build good relationships with patients, colleagues, and supervisors, and always remember to give back,” he said.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Dr. Ochuko Onovae, speaking on “From Eye Care to Legacy: Shaping Your Future in a Tech-Driven World,” encouraged the inductees to embrace lifelong learning, seek mentorship, and leverage technology to advance their careers. “Don’t just survive; make an impact that will be remembered,” he advised.
Parents and guardians were commended for their role in supporting the graduates to achieve their professional dreams.
