In response to the growing oral disease crisis that is disproportionately affecting the poor and marginalized communities, the federal government has introduced two new policies to address the issue. The policies which are the National NOMA Control Policy and Strategic Action Plan for Nigeria (2024-2026), and the National Oral Health Policy (2024-2029) were launched in Abuja by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate. The minister underscored the connection between oral health issues and prevalent noncommunicable diseases, stressing the significance of dental hygiene in maintaining overall body well-being.
Prof. Pate said the launching is among the comprehensive plans being implemented by the current administration to ensure that all Nigerians have access to healthcare through a holistic approach. The new policies mark a major shift by incorporating oral health into a holistic approach that considers other non-communicable diseases. This inclusive model ensures that at-risk populations are not left out, unlike the previous policy. Additionally, oral health services are now part of primary health care, as well as maternal and child health initiatives.
Nigeria has made efforts to inform the global community.
A Director in the ministry, Dr. Anuma Ogbonnaya, praised the Technical Advisory Group for their work in ensuring Noma is listed among one of the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) aimed for eradication by 2030. He said Nigeria has made a concerted effort to inform the global community about the devastating impact of Noma in the region. By raising awareness on a worldwide level, the country hopes to generate increased support for research that will ultimately eliminate the disease.
Dr. Abisola Adegoke, Director of the Federal Medical Centre Division, who spoke on behalf of Ms Daju Kachallom, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health. They highlighted the shared risk factors for Noma and other oral health diseases, including poor oral hygiene, inadequate sanitation, malnutrition, contaminated water sources, and exposure to infections. These factors not only lead to discomfort but also pose life-threatening risks. Addressing these common factors can greatly improve the well-being of communities.
Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for desired outcome.
Kachollom emphasized that the ministry’s goal is to decrease Noma cases in Nigeria by incorporating preventive measures into national health strategies, enhancing primary healthcare services, and working towards Universal Health Coverage. The ministry’s dedication to addressing these complex issues is reflected in this holistic and unified policy and strategy. Dr. Charles Ononiwu, the National Coordinator of NOMA Aid Nigeria Initiative, said the center at the National Hospital Abuja, has successfully completed more than 40 surgeries with more than 30 patients awaiting surgery at the center. Achieving this since its establishment in November 2023 showcases the significant impact and progress made by the centre.
Ononiwu opined that the country has made some progress in managing the complex deformities caused by NOMA. He further noted that there is need for collaboration among stakeholders in order to effectively combat and ultimately end NOMA. In his role as the deputy medical coordinator at Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Peter Ajanson commended Nigeria for unveiling the documents, stating that the nation is making significant progress towards eliminating Noma, following the footsteps of other regions around the globe.
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Mrs. Theresa Maduekwe, representative of the National Orientation Agency, along with Dr. Ukachi Nnawuihe from the Nigeria Dental Association, and various other partners, have all vowed to enhance the oral health of Nigerian citizens by engaging in promotional initiatives. Colgate, a well-known brand of toothpaste, made an agreement with the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) to bring their oral hygiene campaign to schools nationwide and enhance nurses’ ability to detect mouth infection. This partnership was sealed at the conclusion of the event. Mr. Ankur Daruka, the brand’s spokesperson, stated that the project aims to impact 1 million students in primary and secondary schools in 2024.