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By Zika Bobby
As Nigeria marks the 2026 World Oral Health Day, a massive, multi-state initiative is set to redefine dental hygiene standards for 50 million citizens.
In a concerted and ambitious effort to combat the growing burden of oral diseases, Pepsodent has officially launched its 2026 World Oral Health Day (WOHD) campaign, tagged “Do The 2.”
This initiative, organised in partnership with the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA), aims to shift national dental habits by encouraging Nigerians to embrace the critical, yet often overlooked, practice of brushing twice daily.
The campaign is a multi-layered intervention designed to tackle the root causes of poor oral hygiene in Nigeria.
With a target of direct engagement with 500,000 citizens across 17 key cities—including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Ibadan, and Kano—the initiative serves as a clarion call for a healthier, more confident Nigeria.
For many Nigerians, brushing once a day remains the status quo, leaving the mouth vulnerable to bacterial attacks throughout the night. Health experts at the launch event warned that this habit creates a “neglect gap,” providing a breeding ground for bacteria that lead to cavities, plaque build-up, gum disease, and persistent bad breath.
“Brushing only once a day is simply not enough,” explained Lauretta Amie, Brand Manager at Pepsodent, during the official press briefing at Unilever’s headquarters in Lagos.
“The ‘Do The 2’ campaign is a call to action. By brushing at night, you remove the day’s residual food particles and sugar acids. When paired with a morning routine, this provides 24-hour protection that is essential for long-term health.”
Amie further emphasised that the campaign extends beyond brushing, advocating for the professional standard of at least two dental check-ups per year, effectively making “2” the magic number for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
The launch drew high-level support from the Federal Ministry of Health, underscoring the severity of the oral health crisis.
Dr. Gloria Uzoigwe, Head of the Dentistry Division at the Ministry, hailed the partnership as a blueprint for effective public-private collaboration.
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“Unilever’s sustained investment in oral care and the Nigerian Dental Association’s professional dedication are proving to be invaluable in driving our national health priorities. Through these extensive school-based programs and community activations, we are not just treating teeth—we are building a foundation of healthy, lifelong habits for the next generation of Nigerians,” Uzoigwe said.
This year’s theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” serves as a profound reminder that the mouth is the gateway to the body’s overall health. Dr. Emedom Elias, President of the Nigerian Dental Association, in a keynote address reminded stakeholders that oral health is a pillar of general well-being rather than a cosmetic luxury.
“Oral health is not just about having clean teeth and gums. It fundamentally dictates our ability to perform daily tasks—to eat, speak, learn, work, and relate with others. When oral disease impacts an estimated 3.5 billion people globally, including millions here in Nigeria, we must prioritize oral healthcare as a non-negotiable component of our primary health system,” Elias said.
He highlighted that oral health challenges in Nigeria are often exacerbated by poor awareness and limited access to resources. He called on the government to give the recently assembled National Oral Health Strategic Plan the necessary attention to improve administration and care delivery across the country.
To ensure the message reaches the “nooks and crannies” of the country, Pepsodent and the NDA have deployed a four-pronged strategy:
High-Level Stakeholder Engagement: An official kick-off press conference involving the Federal Ministry of Health, Lagos State Ministry of Health, and industry leaders to set the 2026 roadmap.
School Engagement Programmes: Interactive, fun-filled educational sessions in 50 schools nationwide, providing children with brushing demonstrations, oral health education, and free dental screenings to build lasting memories.
NDA-Led Community Activations: A massive mobilisation in high-traffic areas such as open markets, transport hubs, and local neighborhoods across 17 NDA chapters, where dental professionals are providing direct consultations.
Specialized Dental Camps: Strategic, localised medical camps in five key states (including Oyo and others), offering intensive clinical services and professional advice to those with limited access to dental care.
Abayomi Alli, Head of Supply Chain at Unilever Nigeria Plc, reiterated that the company’s commitment extends far beyond the production of high-quality toothpaste.
“World Oral Health Day is a moment for us to recommit to transforming oral health awareness and access to care. We are using partnerships, modern technology, and deep community outreach to ensure every Nigerian has the resources to eradicate oral disease. Good dental hygiene is a shield against systemic health issues like diabetes and heart disease, and we are proud to play a role in building a healthier nation, one smile at a time,” Alli said.
As the campaign continues, the message from the “Do The 2” movement is clear: the path to a healthier, more productive future for Nigeria starts in the bathroom, twice a day. By shifting the national mindset, Pepsodent and the NDA are ensuring that a “happy mouth” is no longer a privilege, but a standard for every Nigerian.
