**Government Targets 3 Million Nigerians in Expanded Oral Health Campaign** The Federal Government has outlined plans to reach at least three million Nigerians through enhanced services and awareness campaigns, marking the country's participation in World Oral Health Day 2026. The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, made the announcement during a commemorative event in Abuja on Thursday. According to Salako, represented by the Director of Hospital Services, Dr Abisola Adegoke, poor oral health has severe consequences for national development. "Oral diseases have impacted negatively on children's growth, adult productivity, and the nation's progress," he said, highlighting the importance of preventive oral health practices. The theme for this year's World Health Day, "A happy mouth is a happy life," serves as a call to action for Nigerians to prioritize oral health. The current campaign marks the final year of a three-year initiative (2024-2026) launched by the *FDI World Dental Federation*, emphasizing the significance of good oral health for overall well-being, happiness, and quality of life. The minister emphasized the importance of simple daily oral healthcare practices and the critical role oral health plays in overall well-being. As part of the government's efforts, oral healthcare has been integrated into primary healthcare systems to improve access, particularly in underserved communities. Community healthcare workers are trained to identify and refer severe oral health conditions such as noma, cleft lip, and palate. Salako further highlighted ongoing collaborations with development partners, including the *World Health Organisation* and *Médecins Sans Frontières*, to tackle neglected oral diseases. The minister commended the *Nigerian Dental Association* for its outreach programmes, which have already reached over 2.4 million Nigerians nationwide. "Our aim this year is to reach three million citizens with education, care, and hope," he said. Salako also announced a partnership with Colgate to train Community Health Extension Workers and promote oral health education in schools and communities. "We are determined that Nigerians will not suffer silently from preventable oral diseases," he said. "Parents, teachers, and healthcare providers must educate citizens on brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, reducing sugar intake, avoiding tobacco, and seeking regular dental care." The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Daju Kachollom, reiterated that most oral diseases are preventable but often neglected.