Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology, Consultant Ophthalmologist, researcher, academic mentor, and healthcare leader committed to advancing eye health, medical education, and preventive ophthalmic care.
MD, FMCOph, MPH, M.Sc., Ph.D., FICS
Prof. Azubuike Alfred Onua is a distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology and Consultant Ophthalmologist at the University of Port Harcourt and the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.
He earned his Medical Degree (MD) from the Kuban State Medical Academy, Russia, where he graduated as the Best Foreign Student in his class. He further obtained a Diploma in Ophthalmology from the West African College of Surgeons and completed his Fellowship in Ophthalmology (FMCOph) at the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria.
In addition to his remarkable clinical and academic accomplishments, Prof. Onua holds Master’s degrees in Public Health and Business Management, as well as a Ph.D. in Epidemiology from the University of Port Harcourt, where he graduated as the Best Ph.D. Student of his set.
He is widely respected for his outstanding contributions to ophthalmology, public health research, medical education, and healthcare leadership.
Prof. Onua is a Fellow of the International College of Surgeons, Coordinator of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (UPTH Accreditation Matters) since 2018, and Coordinator of the Community Ophthalmology Outreach Programs from 2016 to 2024.
Through these responsibilities, he has contributed significantly to advancing accessible eye care services, strengthening medical training, and promoting community-based ophthalmic interventions.
With extensive experience in both clinical practice and academia, Prof. Onua has supervised numerous postgraduate and doctoral candidates while contributing over 60 scientific publications to reputable national and international journals.
His dedication to excellence in research, mentorship, and patient care has earned him recognition as one of the leading voices in ophthalmology and preventive eye health in Nigeria.
As Head of the Department of Ophthalmology, Prof. Onua continues to champion excellence in eye care, research, and medical training, fostering innovation and quality healthcare delivery at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.
As a Founding Patron of the School Children’s Vision Detection and Referral Initiative (SCVDRI), Prof. Onua provides professional guidance, medical expertise, and strategic support toward improving child eye health, promoting early vision screening, and strengthening referral systems for school children with vision-related challenges.
His involvement reflects a deep commitment to ensuring that children with preventable or treatable eye conditions receive timely intervention that supports both their educational development and overall wellbeing.
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and dream without the limitations of poor vision. Protecting children’s eye health is not only a medical responsibility, but an investment in the future of education, confidence, and national development.