FG, Colgate Sign MOU To Increase Oral Health Awareness

The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Colgate Palmolive, manufacturers of Colgate, to deepen awareness about oral health nationwide.

Speaking during the signing ceremony held over the weekend in Abuja, Prof. Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, described the collaboration as a landmark development that will help reduce the prevalence of oral health diseases in the country.

The minister, represented at the signing ceremony by the Director of Teaching Hospitals, Dr. Anuwa Ogbonnaya, noted that oral diseases disproportionately affect the poor and socially disadvantaged members of society. He added that the partnership will encourage more private and public partnerships to address oral health challenges in the country.

Ogbonnaya explained that due to lack of awareness, little or no impetus has given to oral diseases plaguing about 95 per cent of Nigerians in the form of gingivitis, cavities, bleeding gums, sensitivity and tooth loss due to lack of care.

“We are very delighted about this partnership with Colgate. The Federal Ministry of Health has endorsed all Colgate initiatives as part of this agreement. Also, the Federal Ministry of Health has enlisted Colgate as its official health partner for any of its activities.”