Pepsodent Launches Major 'Do The 2Brush Day and Night' Campaign for 2026 World Oral Health Day in Nigeria
In a significant move to enhance oral hygiene nationwide, Pepsodent, a globally recognized toothpaste brand, has officially unveiled its 2026 World Oral Health Day (WOHD) campaign, themed "Do The 2." This initiative is strategically designed to foster better dental care habits among Nigerians through a comprehensive blend of awareness, education, and community engagement.
Campaign Launch and Strategic Partnerships
The campaign was formally launched at a press conference held on Monday, March 16, 2026, at Unilever's head office in Lagos. This event was organized in close collaboration with the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA), highlighting a strong public-private partnership aimed at advancing national health priorities.
Running from March 16 through March 21, 2026, the campaign features an array of activities, including:
- School engagement programs to instill lifelong oral health habits in children.
- Public activations in high-traffic areas to reach a broader audience.
- Dental camps providing direct access to care and education.
The initiative will be implemented across 17 key states, with a particular focus on major urban centers such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Enugu. The ambitious goal is to reach an estimated 50 million Nigerians, emphasizing the campaign's scale and impact.
Key Statements from Stakeholders
During the press briefing, Lauretta Amie, Brand Manager of Pepsodent, emphasized the campaign's core message. "The 'Do The 2' campaign is a call to action for Nigerians to brush twice daily and maintain regular dental visits," she stated. "Through our collaboration with the Nigerian Dental Association, we aim to reach 500,000 people directly, driving awareness on the prevention, detection, and treatment of oral health diseases."
Dr. Gloria Uzoigwe, Head of the Dentistry Division at the Federal Ministry of Health, praised the partnership, noting its demonstration of how public-private collaborations can advance health priorities. She highlighted the success of previous School Oral Health Programs, which have already reached thousands of children across Nigeria, and acknowledged the invaluable role of the private sector and professional associations in public health advancements.
Dr. Emedom Elias, President of the Nigerian Dental Association, described the 2026 World Oral Health Day as a crucial milestone. He underscored this year's theme, "A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life," explaining that oral health extends beyond clean teeth and gums to impact essential functions like eating, speaking, learning, and social interactions. Elias called on the government and stakeholders to prioritize oral healthcare, integrate it into primary healthcare systems, and improve access to quality care and education.
Corporate Commitment and Health Implications
Abayomi Alli, Head of Supply Chain at Unilever Nigeria Plc, reinforced the company's dedication in his keynote speech. He stated that the campaign reaffirms Unilever's commitment to extending its impact beyond high-quality products by leveraging partnerships, technology, and community outreach. "World Oral Health Day is a moment to recommit to transforming oral health awareness and access to care in Nigeria," Alli said. "With the 'Do The 2' campaign, Pepsodent is proud to play a role in building healthier smiles across the nation."
Alli also highlighted the broader health implications, noting that good dental hygiene is essential not only for preventing cavities and gum disease but also for averting systemic issues such as diabetes and heart disease. The campaign aims to reinforce the core message of protecting families from oral health problems like cavities and bad breath, thereby promoting overall well-being.
This initiative represents a concerted effort to address oral health disparities in Nigeria, combining corporate responsibility with professional expertise to create lasting change in dental care habits nationwide.
