Pepsodent, a leading global toothpaste brand, has launched a nationwide oral health campaign, This is aimed at reaching 2.1million primary school pupils across four states in Nigeria.
This initiative is part of Pepsodent’s ongoing mission to promote oral hygiene, will cover 3,818 schools across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Kano state.
From left to right: Brand Manager, Pepsodent, Mary Gbemisola Akindola; Marketing Head, Unilever Oral Care Nigeria, Oiza Gyang; Ejigbo Model Primary Pupil, Eze Jacinta; Head Teacher, Ejigbo Model Primary School, Mrs. Bosede Oduntan; and Research and Development Manager, Personal Care, Unilever West Africa, Mr. Stanley Okeke, at the Pepsodent School Program in Ejigbo, Lagos.
Oral Health Initiative Campaign by Pepsodent
Participating schools in Lagos include De-Bright Nursery and Primary School, Dele Ajomale Primary School, Isolo, Ire-Akari Primary School, Isolo, Kusoru Primary School, Isolo, Olokun Primary School, Isolo, Ayo Adegboyega Primary School, among others.
Speaking about the initiative, Oiza Gyang, Marketing Head of Unilever Oral Care Nigeria, highlighted the importance of early intervention in building lifelong oral hygiene habits.”Habits are formed from a young age, which is why we are focusing on primary school children to help them develop the important practice of brushing day and and night with a fluoride toothpaste like Pepsodent. This early intervention can lead to lifelong, life changing habits,” said Gyang.
Gyang further emphasized that simple habits, like brushing twice daily and using fluoride-based toothpaste, can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and improve overall oral health.
“Brushing correctly and using a fluoride toothpaste is key to reducing the risk of oral diseases. “Improving oral health not only enhances individuals’ overall well-being but also helps reduce absenteeism in schools and workplaces caused by oral health issues.”
She emphasized the role of children as powerful change agents. “Children can influence the adults around them, encouraging parents to adopt the habit of brushing twice daily. By teaching these young change-makers, we are fostering a ripple effect that will positively impact entire families and communities.”
Gyang underscored that this campaign is part of Unilever’s broader social mission, which is deeply rooted in its purpose-driven brands. “At Unilever, our goal is to make sustainable living commonplace, and our brands play a critical role in driving this mission. Through Pepsodent, we are committed to improving global oral health and ensuring access to vital oral hygiene education.
She added, “This is the start of our campaign for the 2024/2025 academic session. As we move into the next year, we plan to expand the campaign to other states. All of this is part of Pepsodent’s social mission, which aim to positively impact 10 million Nigerian children by 2025.“To date, we have reached 7 million children and are on track to fulfilling this commitment.”
Oral Health Campaign Initiative
The Brand Manager for Pepsodent, Mary Gbemisola Akindola, reiterated the significance of the initiative in raising awareness about oral health.
“In addition, we are collaborating with the Nigerian Dental Association to extend oral health campaigns into communities across the country. This will focus on rural areas and is supported by The Ministry of Health and The Education boards.
Mrs. Bosede Oduntan, Headteacher of Ejigbo Model Primary School, highlights its potential to empower and boost their confidence. She thanked Pepsodent for their dedication to improving oral health and affirmed her commitment to promoting oral hygiene among students.
As Pepsodent continues to expand its reach, the brand remains committed to making a lasting differences
For more information about Pepsodent, do visit their website or follow the on social media