Stakeholders in Nigeria’s health sector have called for the integration of oral healthcare into the primary healthcare system, as efforts intensify to improve access, awareness, and preventive practices across the country.

The call was made during the launch of the 2026 World Oral Health Day (WOHD) campaign by Pepsodent, themed “Do The 2,” held at the head office of Unilever Nigeria Plc in Lagos. The campaign is being implemented in collaboration with the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA).

The initiative, which runs from March 16 to 21, 2026, features school engagement programmes, public activations in high-traffic locations, and dental camps. It is expected to be rolled out across 17 states, with a strategic focus on Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Enugu, targeting about 50 million Nigerians.

Brand Manager, Pepsodent, Lauretta Amie, said the campaign was designed to instil lifelong oral health habits among children and adults through a combination of awareness, education, and community engagement.

She explained that the “Do The 2” message encourages Nigerians to brush twice daily and maintain regular dental visits, adding that the partnership with the Nigerian Dental Association aims to reach about 500,000 people with information on prevention, early detection, and treatment of oral diseases.

Also speaking, Head of the Dentistry Division at the Federal Ministry of Health, Gloria Uzoigwe, said the collaboration with Unilever demonstrates the impact of public-private partnerships in advancing national health priorities. She noted that school oral health programmes have already reached thousands of children across several states, underscoring ongoing efforts to promote early adoption of healthy practices.

Uzoigwe acknowledged the role of the private sector and professional bodies in strengthening public health outcomes, stating that Unilever’s investment in oral care initiatives, alongside the Nigerian Dental Association’s commitment to professional standards, remains critical to progress in the sector.

In his remarks, President of the Nigerian Dental Association, Emedom Elias, described the 2026 World Oral Health Day as a significant opportunity to draw attention to the importance of oral health. He noted that the theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” highlights the link between oral health and overall well-being.

Elias stressed that oral health extends beyond clean teeth and gums, noting its influence on essential daily functions such as eating, speaking, learning, and social interaction. He therefore called on government and other stakeholders to prioritise oral healthcare by integrating it into the primary healthcare system, while also expanding access to quality services and strengthening public education and awareness.

Delivering a keynote address, Head of Supply Chain, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Abayomi Alli, said the campaign reflects the company’s commitment to improving health outcomes beyond product delivery. He explained that through partnerships, technology, and community outreach, the company aims to ensure wider access to oral health education and care.

Alli noted that maintaining good oral hygiene is essential not only for preventing cavities and gum disease but also for reducing the risk of systemic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
He added that the campaign reinforces the importance of protecting families from oral health challenges, while using the platform of World Oral Health Day to drive renewed commitment toward better awareness and access to care nationwide.