How Much Do Opticians Earn in Nigeria

An Optician is a skilled healthcare professional with a specialization in vision services relating to providing suitable eye care in the form of eyeglasses or contact lenses for patients according to personal eye needs. They work closely with other specialists like optometrists and ophthalmologists within the field to interpret and provide accurate eye care to patients. Do you have questions like who is an optician? How much do opticians earn in Nigeria? This article aims to provide clarity to what an optician does, the job description of an optician, how much do opticians earn in Nigeria, and how to become an optician in Nigeria.

Who is an Optician?

An optician is a professional healthcare provider that specializes in the eye care field with the vital role of providing patients with eyeglasses and contact lenses that suits their eye needs. These professionals are trained to assist patients by interpreting prescriptions written by optometrists or Ophthalmologists. They then use these prescriptions to provide and dispense accurate corrective glasses or lenses to their patients. An optician is also in charge of assisting and recommending eyeglass frames and contact lenses to patients based on their needs, preferences, or lifestyle. They also have the right knowledge and expertise to take accurate measurements and determine the appropriate size and material of lens that suits the visual need of any patient. Opticians can also repair and adjust eyewear when needed. They work in healthcare retail stores, Eye clinics, Optometry hospitals, and general hospitals. To become a licensed and practicing Optician in Nigeria, you must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Science with a focus on any of the following - Optical theory, eye physiology, ophthalmic dispensing or lens technology, in any reputable University, you must have completed the one-year mandatory NYSC program and also registered under the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN).

Job Description of an Optician

·        Collect prescriptions from Optometrists and Ophthalmologists and accurately interpret them to determine appropriate eyeglasses or contact lenses that suit patients’ needs.  

·        Assist patients in choosing the right eyewear frame, or lenses that are based on their visual needs, lifestyle, or preference

·        Repair and adjust frame and lenses when necessary to fit patients' need

·        Perform accurate measurements of eyewear frames and lenses that fit patients' optimal vision needs and comfort

·        Provide detailed and accurate information to patients on eyewear care and maintenance without causing any damage to the frame or lens

·        Keep up-to-date and accurate records of patients which may include their history, prescriptions, order, and other important documents.

·        Continuous learning and staying informed with trends in eye technology, eyewear fashion, and any other visual industry technology.

How Much Do Opticians Earn In Nigeria

The average optician earns between 84,817 NGN - 206,323 NGN per month in Nigeria, according to Paylab.

How to Become an Optician in Nigeria

Becoming an optician in Nigeria requires the following:

·        Bachelor’s Degree from a reputable and recognized tertiary institution

·        Mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)

·        Professional Exam organized with the Authorize body in Nigeria

·        Registration under the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria (ODORBN).