The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting oral hygiene as part of overall healthcare, marking the 2026 World Oral Health Day.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Press Secretary, Ministry of Health, Saad Hamdalat, and sighted by PUNCH Online in Ilorin, the government said the observance aims to raise awareness about the importance of oral health and encourage healthy habits amongst residents.

Speaking at the event in Ilorin, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina Ahmed El-Imam, represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr Oluwatosin Fakayode, highlighted the global scale of oral health challenges.

"Nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide suffer from oral diseases, with untreated tooth decay being the most common condition. Oral health is often neglected despite its strong link to serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections," she said.

Dr El-Imam added that World Oral Health Day, observed annually on 20th March, serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

"The 2026 campaign theme, 'A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,' highlights how oral health boosts confidence, improves quality of life, and enables individuals to eat, speak, and socialise comfortably," she explained.

She also commended the state Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his continued support and investment in the health sector.

The Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr Kazali Ajao, described oral health as keeping the mouth, teeth, and gums clean and free from conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

"Good oral hygiene helps individuals chew and speak properly, prevents infections, and enhances confidence through a clean and bright smile," he said, advising students to store their toothbrushes properly to avoid contamination from insects such as cockroaches and wall geckos, which can spread harmful bacteria.

During a health education session, the State Health Promotion Officer, Mr Jubril Abdul Kareem, outlined preventive measures for good oral health, including brushing twice daily, flossing to remove trapped food particles, reducing sugar intake, and attending regular dental check-ups.

The Principal of Fate Basin Senior Secondary School, Mrs Ibrahim Mulikat Maiyaki, praised the government's efforts.

"We are grateful to the Ministry of Health for selecting our school as the venue for this important ceremony. Students must ensure their toothbrushes are properly covered to prevent bacterial contamination," she said.

The event highlighted the importance of raising awareness about oral hygiene and encouraged students and the public to adopt healthier habits for improved well-being.