The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oral healthcare services across Nigeria as the country joined the global community to mark World Oral Health Day 2026.
Speaking at the commemoration themed “A happy mouth is a happy life,” the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Adekunle Salako, said the event highlights the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene as a key component of overall wellbeing.
Represented by the Director of Hospital Services, Abisola S.
This was contained in a statement on Wednesday, by Ado Barko, Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations Department.
Adegoke, the minister noted that oral diseases continue to negatively affect children’s growth, adult productivity, and national development.
He disclosed that the ministry has integrated oral healthcare into primary healthcare services, expanded access to affordable dental care, and intensified public education on prevention.
According to him, community health workers are being trained to detect and refer serious conditions such as noma and cleft lip and palate, while school-based and community outreach programmes are promoting healthy oral habits.
The minister added that the government is collaborating with key partners, including the World Health Organization, Noma AIDS Nigeria Initiative and Médecins Sans Frontières, to tackle neglected oral health conditions.
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.
He said the target for this year is to reach three million citizens with oral health education and care.
Salako further revealed that the government has signed a memorandum of understanding with Colgate to train Community Health Extension Workers and promote oral health education in schools and communities.
He stressed that improving oral health requires collective effort, urging Nigerians to adopt simple practices such as brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, reducing sugar intake, avoiding tobacco use, and visiting dental professionals regularly.
Earlier, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Daju Kachollom, represented by the Director of Dental Services, Gloria Uzoigwe, emphasised the need to prioritise preventive care, noting that many oral diseases are avoidable but often neglected until they become severe.
In a goodwill message, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, represented by Uchenna Ekwenibe, said oral health plays a vital role in improving quality of life and urged students to spread awareness among their peers.
The event featured oral health presentations, an awareness march, and an oratory competition. Army Day Secondary School Abuja emerged winner, receiving a cash prize of N100,000, followed by Command Secondary School Lungi Barracks Abuja with N80,000, while Stem Child Care Academy secured third place with N50,000. Other participants received consolation prizes.