FG Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthen Oral Healthcare Services

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to improving oral healthcare services across Nigeria as the country joined the global community to mark the 2026 World Oral Health Day.
Speaking at the commemoration themed “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, described the event as a reminder of the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene and its impact on overall wellbeing.
Represented by the Director of Hospital Services at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Abisola Adegoke, the minister noted that oral diseases continue to affect children’s development, adult productivity, and national growth.
He disclosed that the ministry has integrated oral healthcare into primary healthcare services, expanded access to affordable dental care, and intensified community-based education and prevention programmes.
According to him, community health workers are being trained to detect and refer serious oral conditions such as noma and cleft lip and palate, while school-based and outreach initiatives are promoting healthy oral habits nationwide.
The minister added that the government is collaborating with development partners and organisations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), Noma AID Nigeria Initiative and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), to tackle neglected oral diseases.
He also commended the Nigerian Dental Association for its outreach programmes, which have reached over 2.4 million Nigerians across more than 20 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with a target to reach three million people this year.
Salako further revealed that the government has signed a memorandum of understanding with Colgate to train Community Health Extension Workers on basic oral healthcare and promote hygiene education in schools and communities.
He stressed that improving oral health requires collective action, urging parents, teachers, and healthcare providers to encourage practices such as brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, reducing sugar intake, avoiding tobacco, and seeking regular dental care.
In her remarks, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Daju Kachollom, represented by Director of Dental Services, Dr. Gloria Uzoigwe, said oral health is a vital component of overall wellbeing, warning that many preventable conditions are often neglected until they become severe.
She commended stakeholders and partners for their continued support and urged sustained efforts to promote preventive care and healthy habits.
Also speaking, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, represented by Dr. Uchenna Ekwenibe, said the theme highlights the importance of oral health in enhancing quality of life and called on students to champion awareness among their peers.
The event featured presentations, a student awareness march, and an oratory competition. Army Day Secondary School, Abuja, emerged winner, while Command Secondary School, Lungi Barracks, Abuja, came second, and Stem Child Care Academy placed third. Other participants received consolation prizes.