The federal ministry of health has signed a memorandum of understanding with Colgate Palmolive Tolaram, manufacturers of Colgate, a leading oral care brand in Nigeria, to deepen awareness about oral health nationwide.
Speaking during the signing ceremony held recently in Abuja, Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare, described the collaboration as a landmark development that would help reduce the prevalence of oral health diseases in the country.
Represented by Anuwa Ogbonnaya, director of teaching hospitals in the ministry, Pate noted that oral diseases disproportionally 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.
He explained that due to a lack of awareness, little or no impetus was given to oral diseases that are plaguing about 95 percent 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 ministry has enlisted Colgate as its official health partner for any of its activities”, he said.
Ankur Daruka, the general manager of Colgate Palmolive Tolaram, represented, described the MOU as an affirmation of Colgate’s commitment to preventive oral care and education in Nigeria. He added that the association with the ministry was another step towards improving access, affordability, and awareness of oral care in Nigeria.
Daruka said the brand has reached over 10 million children in different rural parts of the country with free samples of toothpaste and toothbrushes.
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