Pepsodent, a prominent global toothpaste brand, has officially inaugurated its campaign for the 2026 World Oral Health Day (WOHD), themed “Do The 2,” aimed at fostering better oral hygiene practices among the Nigerian populace.
The launch of the “Do The 2” campaign occurred at a press conference on Monday, March 16, 2026, held at Unilever’s headquarters in Lagos, organized in partnership with the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA).
The campaign is set to run from March 16 to March 21, 2026, and will encompass various school engagement activities, public promotions in busy locations, and dental camps. This initiative is projected to impact 50 million Nigerians, focusing particularly on major urban areas such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Enugu.
At the press event, Pepsodent’s Brand Manager, Lauretta Amie, expressed the brand's commitment to instilling lifelong oral health habits in both children and adults through awareness, educational programs, and community outreach.
“The ‘Do The 2’ campaign seeks to encourage Nigerians to brush their teeth twice daily and to make regular dental check-ups a priority. Our collaboration with the Nigerian Dental Association is aimed at directly reaching 500,000 individuals to elevate awareness regarding the prevention, identification, and management of dental health issues,” Amie stated.
Dr. Gloria Uzoigwe, Head of the Dentistry Division at the Federal Ministry of Health, highlighted that the partnership with Unilever exemplifies the effective synergy between public and private entities in promoting national health priorities, noting the extensive reach of the School Oral Health Programs across numerous states in Nigeria.
Dr. Uzoigwe commended the role of the private sector and professional organizations in enhancing public health, remarking that Unilever’s investment in oral care initiatives, alongside the Nigerian Dental Association’s commitment to professional excellence, is vital in driving advancements.
Dr. Emedom Elias, President of the Nigerian Dental Association, referred to the 2026 World Oral Health Day celebration as a significant step in emphasizing the critical nature of oral health. He pointed out that the year's campaign, with the theme “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” underscores the connection between oral health and overall well-being.
Dr. Elias elaborated that oral health encapsulates more than just having clean teeth and healthy gums; it also significantly influences daily activities, including eating, speaking, learning, working, and social interactions.
He urged governmental and relevant entities to place greater importance on oral healthcare as a key aspect of overall health and called for collaborative efforts to improve access to quality oral health services, raise awareness, and incorporate dental care into the primary healthcare framework.
Providing insights during the conference, Abayomi Alli, Head of Supply Chain at Unilever Nigeria Plc, reaffirmed the company's dedication to making a substantial difference beyond delivering high-quality products. He emphasized the importance of leveraging partnerships, technology, and community efforts to enhance access to dental education, resources, and care, ultimately pushing towards the eradication of oral diseases and fostering healthier lifestyles for Nigerians.
Mr. Alli remarked that maintaining proper dental hygiene is crucial not only for preventing cavities and gum disease but also for averting broader health complications such as diabetes and heart ailments. He added that this campaign aims to reinforce the core message of safeguarding families from dental problems and promoting fresh breath.
“World Oral Health Day serves as an opportunity to recommit to enhancing oral health awareness and access to healthcare in Nigeria. With the 'Do The 2' campaign, Pepsodent proudly contributes to the development of healthier smiles throughout the nation,” he concluded.
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