The Kwara State Government has reiterated its dedication to improving oral healthcare across the state, aligning with the annual World Oral Health Day observance. In a statement released on Thursday, the Ministry of Health underscored the event’s role in promoting awareness and encouraging preventative habits among residents.
The statement, issued by Press Secretary Saad Hamdalat and confirmed by PUNCH Online, highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to integrate oral hygiene into broader public health strategies. Speaking in Ilorin, State Commissioner for Health Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam—represented by Director of Public Health Dr. Oluwatosin Fakayode—cited alarming global statistics, noting that nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide live with oral diseases, many suffering from untreated tooth decay. She stressed that oral health is frequently overlooked despite its well-documented connections to serious systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
Dr. El-Imam explained that World Oral Health Day, marked every March 20, serves as a crucial reminder to maintain healthy teeth and gums. This year’s theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” emphasizes how good oral health directly contributes to confidence, quality of life, and the ability to eat, speak, and socialize without discomfort. She acknowledged Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s support for health sector investments in Kwara.
Further detailing practical care, Deputy Director of Public Health Dr. Kazali Ajao defined oral health as maintaining a clean mouth, teeth, and gums free from decay, gum disease, and halitosis. He noted that proper hygiene supports proper chewing and speech, prevents infections, and enhances social confidence. Dr. Ajao issued specific advice to students on storing toothbrushes correctly to avoid contamination from insects like cockroaches and wall geckos, which can harbor harmful bacteria.
State Health Promotion Officer Mr. Jubril Abdul Kareem led a health education session, outlining key preventative measures: brushing twice daily, flossing to remove trapped food particles, limiting sugar consumption, and attending regular dental check-ups.
The event was held at Fate Basin Senior Secondary School in Ilorin. Principal Mrs. Ibrahim Mulikat Maiyaki expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s selection of the school as the venue and echoed the call for students to properly cover their toothbrushes to prevent bacterial contamination.
The observance reinforces Kwara State’s commitment to elevating oral hygiene as a fundamental component of public health, using education and community engagement to foster long-term behavioural change and improve overall well-being.
