The Nigerian Dental Association (NDA) Osun State Chapter, has commended the efforts of Governor Adegboyega Oyetola for taking his subject health as priority.
Speaking, the chairperson of the association, Dr. Oluyemi Ogundun said the state is witnessing a new dimension in her health sector.
Ogundun stated this while paying a courtesy visit, on Tuesday, to the state Deputy Governor Benedict Alabi, Abere, Osogbo state capital as part of activities to mark 2021 World Oral Health Day.
She said the efforts of the Governor of the State, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola through Primary Health Care Board for the revitalisation of primary Healthcare facilities across the state is commendable.
She however, appealed to the state government to facilitate one dental clinic in each local government in the state at primary health care which she argue is the closest to the people at the grassroot level.
She implored the state government to employ more oral health professional for the benefit of the general populace, charging the government to take the advocacy of Oral Health in the interest of the citizens.
She charged the populace to responsible to their oral health for the healthy life, imploring them to stick to the oral hygiene through visiting the dentist regularly thorough for checkup.
According to her, “The World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is a day targeted at individuals, schools, youth groups, young adults, senior citizens, market women, artisans and for oral health professionals to educate the population they serve.
“More importantly, it is an opportunity to do advocacy to the governments and policy-makers to champion better oral health. As an association, we have embarked on various activites both virtual and on-ground to remind the people and stakeholders of oral health within the state, the importance of oral health especially during this pandemic era.
“Dental Health Professionals remind you to adopt healthy oral and general hygiene practices, stop detrimental practices and stay safe as we have fun celebrating 2021 World Oral Health Day.
Similarly, the Commissioner For Health,
Dr Isamotu Rafiu said the present administration has continue to provide a more enabling work environment for the oral health professionals in the state through the upgrade of the existing oral health equipment employment of more health practitioners.
Rafiu further said that the investment in oral health will yield dividends of good general health, a healthy work force for wealthier state and nation.
We have been able to carry out these activities with strict adherence to the safety protocols and guidelines to prevent COVID-19 tranmission. as laid down by the Government such as social distancing, use of face masks, hand hygiene etc. With the aid of virtual/digital tools, we will have modifications and utilize maximally, the social media and traditional media to reach numerous individuals” Isamotu said
However, Osun State Deputy Governor, Benedict Alabi reiterated the commitment of the present administration in all ramification.
Benedict promised that Osun government will always support the association whenever the needs arise.
God bless NDA (Osun state chapter) kudos to the chairperson in person of Dr. Oluyemi Ogundun, she is doing a great job and has passion for the people even at the grassroot level. God bless Osun state and our governor, Gov. Gboyega Oyetola and God bless Nigeria.
Wonderful outing Osun NDA. Kudos to the Osun State government for her efforts at improving the health of the good people of Osun State.
However, we are hoping this goodwill will be extended to oral health by building one Dental Center per local government in the State