How much does a Optometrist earn in Nigeria?

Optometrists in Nigeria are primary eye care professionals who diagnose, manage, and treat disorders of the eyes and visual system. They conduct eye examinations, prescribe corrective lenses, detect eye-related diseases, and offer advice on maintaining optimal eye health. Optometrists often work in hospitals, clinics, private practices, and vision centres, collaborating with ophthalmologists and other healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive eye care.

The average salary for a optometrist in Nigeria can vary based on the employer, location, and experience. The approximate figures are:

Note: These figures are estimates and can vary. Senior and specialized professionals may earn significantly more.

• Entry Level (0–2 years): 120000 – 180000
• Mid-Level (3–5 years): 180000 – 280000
• Experienced (6–10 years): 250000 – 400000
• Senior/Consultant (10+ years): 350000 – 600000

• Doctor of Optometry (OD): Holders of a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from a recognised Nigerian university earn competitive starting salaries. Most practising optometrists in Nigeria possess this qualification.
• OD + Fellowship/Advanced Clinical Training: Optometrists with additional fellowship training or postgraduate certifications from the Nigerian College of Optometrists or international bodies typically command higher salaries, especially in teaching hospitals or specialist clinics.

Becoming a licensed optometrist in Nigeria involves rigorous academic training, clinical internships, and licensure by the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN).

1. Obtain at least five credits in SSCE/WAEC/NECO, including English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
2. Pass the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, meeting the cut-off for optometry at your chosen Nigerian university (e.g., University of Benin, Abia State University).
3. Complete a five- or six-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) programme at an accredited Nigerian university.
4. Undertake a compulsory one-year clinical internship in an approved hospital, teaching hospital, or eye clinic.
5. Successfully register with the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN) by passing the licensure exams.
6. Fulfil the one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme.

Admission into optometry programmes in Nigeria requires five credits in science subjects at the SSCE/WAEC/NECO level. Optometrists must graduate with a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from a university accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the ODORBN, such as University of Benin, Madonna University, or Abia State University.

In Nigeria, all practising optometrists must be fully registered and licensed by the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN). Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits are also required for licence renewal. Membership in the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) offers further professional support, networking, and advocacy.

To attract employers in Nigeria, optometrists should showcase their OD degree, ODORBN licence, clinical internship experience, and any specialist certifications (such as paediatric or geriatric optometry) on their LinkedIn profile. Including volunteer work with eye health NGOs and participation in vision screening projects can also boost professional visibility.

See how a optometrist's salary in Nigeria compares to other professions. This can help you understand your earning potential and career options.