ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government is launching a nationwide oral health campaign aimed at reaching three million Nigerians, as officials warn that untreated dental conditions continue to affect public health and productivity.
Speaking on Thursday at World Oral Health Day in Abuja, Minister of State for Health Iziaq Salako says oral diseases remain widespread but underreported.
“Untreated oral conditions affect children’s development and workplace productivity,” he says.
The initiative integrates dental care into primary healthcare, targeting rural and underserved communities with prevention, early detection, and basic treatment.
Community health workers are also being trained to identify severe conditions such as noma and cleft lip and palate for referral.
The government is partnering with the World Health Organization and Médecins Sans Frontières to address neglected oral diseases.
Salako commends the Nigerian Dental Association for reaching over 2.4 million Nigerians through outreach programmes.
Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom urges early prevention, noting many dental conditions are avoidable but often ignored.
Officials emphasise daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, reduced sugar intake, and routine dental visits.
The campaign underscores growing efforts to integrate oral health into Nigeria’s broader healthcare system.
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