Oyo State Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal stressed the urgent need for the dental industry to address challenges, particularly by providing advanced equipment and facilities to train the next generation of dental professionals.
Lawal, speaking at the 50th anniversary fundraising and FICD awards ceremony of the University of Ibadan School of Dentistry on Monday, said adequate equipment would help curb the migration of dental professionals overseas. “If they are able to stay, their focus will be on saving lives,” he added.
He called on local, national, and international organizations to support the dental industry, emphasizing that today’s fundraising event is crucial for upgrading dental clinics and laboratories, expanding oral health research, and providing scholarships and mentorship for future dentists.
Lawal pledged the state government’s continued support for the University of Ibadan School of Dentistry to promote oral health, research, and improve health services.
He noted the nationwide shortage of facilities and equipment and urged collective action to address this challenge.
Experts highlighted Nigeria’s oral health crisis, citing high rates of oral cancer and oral infections, limited specialist resources, and a lack of advanced training infrastructure.
Professor W.L. Adeyemo, Chief Medical Director of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, decried the issue of inadequate facilities leading many graduates to leave the country.
Professor Kayode Adebowale, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Iowa, praised the dental school for providing an excellent environment for young professionals, while Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Olapegba emphasized the school’s commitment to producing confident, skilled graduates.
Professor Samuel Omokhodion, President of the Global Alumni Association, commended the school for offering full-time dental training since 1975 and reiterated the alumni’s support for the school’s advancement into a world-class center for dental education and innovation.
Dignitaries attending the event included Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye of Ogbomoso, Chairman of the BOVAS Group, Bamidele Samson, senior university and medical officials, and local and international dental professionals.