FG, firm partner to improve oral health among Nigerians

By Zika Bobby

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding  (MoU) with Colgate Palmolive Tolaram to deepen awareness about oral health nationwide.

Speaking during the signing ceremony in Abuja, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, described the collaboration as a landmark development that would help reduce the prevalence of oral health diseases in the country.

The Minister, represented by the Director of Teaching Hospitals, Dr. Anuwa Ogbonnaya, noted that oral diseases disproportionately affect the poor and socially disadvantaged members of society, adding that the partnership would encourage more private and public partnerships to address oral health challenges in the country.

Ogbonnaya said due to lack of awareness, little or no impetus is given to oral diseases that are plaguing about 95 percent of Nigerians in the form of gingivitis, cavities, bleeding gums, sensitivity, and tooth loss due to lack of care.

“We are very delighted about this partnership with Colgate. The Federal Ministry of Health has endorsed all Colgate initiatives as part of this agreement. Also, the Federal Ministry of Health has enlisted Colgate as its official health partner for any of its activities,” he said.

In his remarks, the General Manager of Colgate Palmolive Tolaram, represented by Ankur Daruka, described the MOU as an affirmation of Colgate’s commitment to preventive oral care and education in Nigeria.

He said the association with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare was another step towards improving access, affordability and awareness of oral care in Nigeria.

Daruka said the brand has reached over 10 million children in different rural parts of the country with free samples of toothpaste and toothbrushes. He stated that Colgate’s expert scientific formulas are among the best in the world, and the company has a strong leadership presence in over 200 countries.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Professional Relations and BSBF Manager, Colgate Palmolive Tolaram, Dr. Ogechukwu Macjohnson, explained that the programme tagged: ‘Bright Smile, Bright Future’ is targeting one million children across the country this year.

According to her, the programme is catching the children young, teaching them how to take care of their oral health so that it will become a habit as they grow up.

“We are carrying out a school oral health programme, teaching the children how to care for their teeth properly; we don’t want people to lose their teeth anymore. We plan to reach one million children in public and private schools nationwide every year. With time, we will increase the numbers,” she added.