Abuja: The Centre for School Health Education and Environmental Hygiene (CSHEEH) on Monday marked the 2026 World Oral Health Day in Abuja with awareness activities for pupils. The event was held at LEA Primary and Junior Secondary School, Sabon-Lugbe, in collaboration with the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA), FCT Chapter, with support from Unilever and partners.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, CSHEEH Executive Director, Dr. Folasade Momoh, stated that the programme aimed to promote oral hygiene awareness among pupils and encourage healthy practices. Momoh highlighted that World Oral Health Day, observed annually on March 20, raises awareness about oral health and encourages people to adopt proper hygiene practices. She noted that the 2026 theme, ‘A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,’ underscores the connection between oral health and overall well-being.
Dr. Momoh emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean mouth for good health, urging pupils to brush their teeth at least twice daily. She explained that good oral hygiene prevents dental caries and gum diseases and may also reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancers. Dental experts were present to educate pupils on oral health, demonstrate proper brushing techniques, and guide them on practical steps for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
The event also included dental screenings for pupils and staff. Individuals diagnosed with dental issues were referred for further medical care. Dr. Momoh mentioned that toothbrushes, toothpaste, and educational materials would be distributed, 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 school venue and appreciated partners including Unilever, the Nigerian Dental Association, Inner Wheel, and Petra Digital Press.
Mr. Shehu Nasko, representing FCT-UBEB Chairman Mrs. Florence Wenegieme, commended CSHEEH for implementing several health and education interventions benefiting pupils in schools across the FCT. Dr. Sopuruchi Nweke, General Secretary of the Nigerian Dental Association, FCT Chapter, representing Chairman Dr. Theophilus Agho, stressed the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene. Nweke mentioned that the association regularly visits schools across the FCT during World Oral Health Day to educate pupils on dental care and promote preventive practices.
Earlier, the school’s head teacher, Hajia Halima Suleiman, welcomed the organisers and highlighted the significance of oral hygiene for children’s health and development. Suleiman appreciated CSHEEH for selecting the school for the outreach, noting that healthy teeth and gums enable children to eat well, speak clearly, and smile confidently. Taiye Adebayo, President of the Inner Wheel Club of Garki Rubys, expressed the organisation’s commitment to community service and improving public health. Adebayo stated that the club, affiliated with Rotary International, promotes friendship, service, and international understanding while supporting health awareness initiatives in communities.