The Nigerian Dental Therapists’ Association (NDTA) has held its 21st National Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Kano, with a focus on advancing technology and professionalism in dental care delivery.
The Independent Mirror reports that, while speaking at the event, the National President of the Association, Comrade Fashim Amayah Zeta, stated that after the conference, stakeholders will come up with a communiqué that will be forwarded to the Federal Government as input toward the ongoing formulation of the national policy on oral health care in Nigeria.
The president reiterated the Association’s commitment to engaging stakeholders, the media, and the general public in sensitizing Nigerians on the importance of maintaining proper oral health care across the country.
Speaking earlier, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, represented by the Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital Abuja, Professor Raji Mahmoud, said that through the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Government is not only supporting federal health institutions but also encouraging state and local government-owned facilities to provide oral health care services to patients nationwide.
Professor Mahmoud reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to designing policies and programs aimed at safeguarding the health of Nigerians.
In his remarks, Comrade Nura Ali Sa’id, Chairman of the Kano State chapter of NDTA, said the decision to host the AGM in Kano was in recognition of the large number of health facilities and professionals delivering oral health care services in the state.
According to him, over 30 healthcare facilities in Kano State currently provide oral health services, including those in Rogo, Wudil, Gwale, Takai, Minjibir, Sumaila, Bebeji, Gano, Dawakin Kudu, Tofa, Kumbotso, Mariri, Dambatta, Gwarzo, and several other locations across the state.
He also called on traditional rulers and community leaders to sensitize the general public on the importance of oral hygiene and encourage people to visit dental facilities for professional medical advice and treatment.
