The Centre for School Health Education and Environmental Hygiene (CSHEEH) on Monday commemorated the 2026 World Oral Health Day in Abuja with awareness activities aimed at promoting oral hygiene among primary and junior secondary school pupils.
The event took place at LEA Primary and Junior Secondary School, Sabon-Lugbe, in partnership with the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA), FCT Chapter, and with support from Unilever and other collaborators.
CSHEEH Executive Director, Dr. Folasade Momoh, said the programme sought to raise oral health awareness among pupils and encourage lifelong healthy practices.
Momoh explained that World Oral Health Day, observed annually on March 20, focuses global attention on oral health and motivates individuals to adopt proper hygiene habits.
She highlighted the 2026 theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” which underscores the connection between oral health, overall well-being, and healthy living.
“Maintaining a clean mouth is essential for good health,” Momoh said. “We urge pupils to brush their teeth at least twice daily.”
She noted that good oral hygiene prevents dental caries and gum diseases and may reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
During the outreach, dental experts educated pupils on oral health, demonstrated correct brushing techniques, and provided practical guidance for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Dental screening was conducted for pupils and staff, with those diagnosed with issues referred for further care.
Momoh added that toothbrushes, toothpaste, and educational materials were distributed to participants, expressing hope that pupils would share the knowledge with their families and communities.
She thanked the FCT Universal Basic Education Board (FCT-UBEB) for approving the venue and acknowledged partners including Unilever, the Nigerian Dental Association, Inner Wheel Club, and Petra Digital Press.
Momoh stressed the importance of collective action to prioritise children’s oral health and foster healthy lifestyles.
Mr. Shehu Nasko, representing FCT-UBEB Chairman Mrs. Florence Wenegieme, commended CSHEEH for its ongoing health and education interventions benefiting pupils across FCT schools.
Dr. Sopuruchi Nweke, General Secretary of the Nigerian Dental Association, FCT Chapter (representing Chairman Dr. Theophilus Agho), emphasised the value of consistent oral hygiene practices.
Nweke said the association regularly conducts school outreach during World Oral Health Day to educate pupils on dental care and preventive measures.
The school’s head teacher, Halima Suleiman, welcomed the organisers and underscored the importance of oral hygiene for children’s overall health and development.
“Healthy teeth and gums enable children to eat well, speak clearly, and smile confidently,” Suleiman said, appreciating CSHEEH for selecting the school for the outreach.
Taiye Adebayo, President of the Inner Wheel Club of Garki Rubys, reaffirmed the club’s commitment to community service and public health improvement.
Affiliated with Rotary International, the club promotes friendship, service, and international understanding while supporting health awareness initiatives.
Highlights of the event included health talks, practical brushing demonstrations, interactive question-and-answer sessions, distribution of dental kits, and on-site dental screening for pupils in their classrooms.
The outreach aligns with global efforts to reduce oral disease burden and improve quality of life through early education and preventive care among young Nigerians.
