The primary global toothpaste brand, Pepsodent, has collaborated with the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Dental Association to launch an extensive oral health campaign aimed at schools and communities in underserved areas across the nation. Named the 'Pepsodent Talk to a Dentist Activation,' the initiative targeted 20 communities spanning nine states, including Lagos, Rivers, Plateau, Ogun, Kano, FCT, Delta, Edo, and Bayelsa.
Commencing on July 6, 2023, at Pakoto Secondary School, Ifo, Ogun State, the program concluded its efforts on November 7, 2023.
Oiza Gyang, Business Lead, Beauty & Personal Care at Unilever Nigeria, emphasized that the initiative was designed to bring oral health care services and awareness activities to underprivileged areas, aligning with the FDI World Dental Federation's vision to alleviate the burden of untreated oral diseases.
Gyang affirmed the company's commitment to advancing oral health for both children and adults, with plans to extend these campaigns to virtually all rural communities in Nigeria. Disturbing statistics revealed that 90% of the global population experiences at least one form of oral disease during their lifetime, resulting in pain, discomfort, social isolation, and loss of confidence.
Dr. Oluwole Olusanya, Chairman of the Lagos Chapter, Nigerian Dental Association, emphasized the campaign's goal of enhancing knowledge about proper oral hygiene practices, especially among young pupils nationwide. The focus was on teaching proper brushing techniques, identifying dental infections, providing necessary treatments, and referring cases requiring advanced care to dental centers.
Acknowledging the increased awareness of oral hygiene among Nigerians since the campaign's inception, Dr. Olusanya commended the joint efforts of the professional body and Unilever Nigeria.
Chinonyerem Opara, Assistant Category Manager - Oral Care, Unilever Nigeria, shared that the company's decision to reach out to communities stemmed from the desire to transform individuals unaware of oral hygiene's importance into advocates for healthier smiles. Opara stressed the commitment to altering the narrative by ensuring residents in rural areas receive prompt oral healthcare.
Highlighting the research indicating a disparity in oral health care accessibility between urban and rural areas, Opara pointed out the resulting high burden of untreated oral diseases in underserved communities. Various activations, including those in Makoko Community Yaba, Lagos State, Ogoni Community, Ogoni, River State, and Owhelogbo Grammar School, Owhelogbo, Delta State, collectively reached over 1 million residents and school children.
During one activation, Mrs. Josephine Salako, Principal of Sanmori Senior Comprehensive High School, lauded Pepsodent and the NDA for creating essential awareness about oral hygiene. Salako expressed gratitude for the unique approach of giving back to society, emphasizing the potential multiplier effect on families and society through dental check-ups for pupils.
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