Dental health professionals in Nigeria are calling for a major change in the way dental technologists and laboratories are recognised and included within the nation’s healthcare system. Leaders from the Association of Dental Technologists of Nigeria (ADTN) made this appeal during their 37th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference held in Gombe. They emphasised that dental technologists should have a more prominent role in supporting Nigeria’s efforts toward universal health coverage and improving oral healthcare for all citizens.
The ADTN, led by National President Dr Stephen Eyarefe and General Secretary Comrade Haruna Jethro, cited serious challenges facing the profession. They noted poor funding and limited resources for education and training, shortages of modern equipment in dental laboratories, and weak regulation of professional standards. Low pay and a lack of motivation are driving many skilled workers to seek jobs elsewhere, described as an ongoing “brain drain.” Public understanding of oral health was also highlighted as a major area needing improvement.
Included in their resolutions, the ADTN requested that dental technologists and officers be formally recognised in the National Oral Health Policy and brought into the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, which ensures healthcare funding. They believe this would allow dental technologists to provide more preventive, restorative, and rehabilitative care and have these services covered by national insurance, benefiting more Nigerians. The group also called on government to digitalise training programmes and update education standards to align with global trends.
During the opening of the conference, Dr Eyarefe encouraged dental technologists to remain committed to high standards and innovation. Retired Air Commodore Mathew Bulus, who chaired the event, praised Gombe State’s steps to hire more qualified technologists and focus on better oral care. Representatives from the Gombe State Government, the Hospital Services Management Board, and the Dental Technologists Registration Board of Nigeria (DTRBN) expressed strong support for these reforms and promised ongoing collaboration.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Habu Dahiru, spoke on behalf of the state governor, highlighting the importance of the conference’s theme and affirming the government’s readiness to work with dental technologists in advancing oral health services. The ADTN believes these collective efforts are essential for national development and to give dental technology professionals the recognition and opportunities they need to succeed within the wider healthcare system.