The Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA), Imo State Chapter, ably led by Dr. Patrick Iwuchukwu, has honoured the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Imo State Health Insurance Agency (IMSHIA), Dr. Uchenna Ewelike (Ph.D.), with an Award of Transformational Leadership in Healthcare.
The award was presented during the Association’s 2025 End-of-Year Gala Night, themed “Eyes on the Ball”, held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Rockview Hotel, Owerri.
Presenting the award, the President-Elect of the African Council of Optometry, Dr. Ozy Okonokhua, commended Dr. Ewelike’s distinguished public service credentials and records, exceptional leadership, and professional contributions to strengthening healthcare delivery in Imo State. He highlighted Dr. Ewelike’s relentless drive towards advancing Universal Health Coverage through health insurance, citing the recent push to enroll 2.7 million Imo residents as both “lofty, ambitious, and unquestionably impactful.”
In his response, Dr. Ewelike expressed gratitude to the NOA Imo State Chapter for the recognition. He acknowledged the critical role optometrists play in the successful implementation of health insurance in the state, emphasizing their contributions within the Imo State Health Insurance Agency.
The health financing expert further reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to continued collaboration with the NOA, Imo State Chapter, to ensure the provision of a full spectrum of eye care services. These include primary eye care, secondary care, and surgical interventions, all captured within the Agency’s health insurance benefit package.
