By Zika Bobby
Pepsodent has launched a nationwide oral health campaign aimed at reaching 2.1 million primary school pupils across four states in Nigeria.
This initiative is part of Pepsodent’s ongoing mission to promote oral hygiene, which will cover 3,818 schools across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Kano states.
The school activation campaign commenced September 17, 2024, simultaneously at 20 primary schools in Lagos, where the campaign is expected to cover Alimosho, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Oshodi-Isolo, Ikeja, Kosofe, Agege, Mushin, Surulere, Shomolu, Ifako Ijaiye, and Lagos Mainland.
In Oyo, the councils involved are Afijio, Atiba, Iseyin, Lagelu, Oluyole, Egbeda, Akinyele, Ido, Ogbomoso, and Oyo East and West. In Ogun, Odo Ota, Owode, and Abeokuta North and South were activated, while Kano’s Ungongo, Kumbotso, Nassarawa, Gezawa, and Gwale were not left out.
Participating schools in Lagos include De-Bright Nursery and Primary School; Dele Ajomale Primary School, Isolo; Ire-Akari Primary School, Isolo; Kusoru Primary School, Isolo; Olokun Primary School, Isolo; Ayo Adegboyega Primary School, Ejigbo; Ejigbo Model Primary School, Ejigbo; Ifoshi Primary School, Ejigbo and Imakiyo Primary School, EjIgbo, among others.
Speaking about the initiative, Oiza Gyang, Marketing Head of Unilever Oral Care Nigeria, highlighted the importance of early intervention in building lifelong oral hygiene habits. “Habits are formed from a young age, which is why we are focusing on primary school children to help them develop the important practice of brushing day and and night with a fluoride toothpaste like Pepsodent. This early intervention can lead to lifelong, life changing habits,” said Gyang.
Gyang further noted that simple acts, such as brushing twice daily and using fluoride based toothpaste, could help prevent the incident of tooth decay and improve overall oral health.
“Brushing correctly and using a fluoride toothpaste is key to reducing the risk of oral diseases. By improving oral health, we not only boost individuals’ overall well-being but also contribute to reducing absenteeism in schools and workplaces due to oral health issues.”
She emphasised the role of children as powerful change agents, stating, “Children can influence the adults around them, encouraging parents and guardians to adopt the habit of brushing twice daily. By teaching these young change-makers, we are fostering a ripple effect that will positively impact entire families and communities.”
Gyang underscored that the campaign is part of Unilever’s broader social mission, which is deeply rooted in its purpose-driven brands. “At Unilever, our goal is to make sustainable living commonplace, and our brands play a critical role in driving this mission. Through Pepsodent, we are committed to improving global oral health and ensuring access to vital oral hygiene education.”
Brand Manager for Pepsodent, Mary Gbemisola Akindola, reiterated the significance of the initiative in raising awareness about oral health and noted the additional efforts Pepsodent is making beyond schools.
In response to the activation, Mrs. Bosede Oduntan, head teacher of Ejigbo Model Primary School, expressed excitement over the initiative, noting that it would significantly empower pupils and boost their confidence. She thanked Unilever and Pepsodent for their dedication to improving oral health across Nigeria and affirmed the school’s commitment to encouraging regular oral hygiene practices among its students.