Okpebholo Boosts Public Healthcare with Free Dental Services for Edo Residents

The Edo State Government, under Governor Monday Okpebholo, has intensified efforts to improve healthcare delivery with the provision of free dental screening and treatment for residents, as part of activities marking the 2026 World Oral Health Day.

The initiative, anchored on the administration’s SHINE Agenda, reflects a broader commitment to strengthening the state’s health system and expanding access to quality medical services.

As part of ongoing reforms, the government has upgraded and revitalised health facilities across the three senatorial districts, including the Government House Medical Centre, which has undergone significant transformation.

Previously described as under-equipped and underutilised, the facility has now been renovated, furnished with modern medical equipment, and staffed with qualified healthcare professionals. It currently offers a range of services, including laboratory investigations, pharmaceutical care, optometry, and now dental services.

To commemorate World Oral Health Day, themed “A Happy Mouth is a Healthy Life,” the Medical Centre, in collaboration with the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA), Edo State Chapter, organised a dental outreach programme providing free screening and treatment to staff, appointees, their families, and members of the public.

Over 150 beneficiaries received various dental procedures, including scaling and polishing, tooth extraction, fillings, composite build-up, and denture fabrication.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa commended the administration’s focus on citizens’ well-being, noting that healthcare remains a key pillar of the SHINE Agenda.

He said the Government House Medical Centre, initially built during the administration of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, had been revitalised and repositioned to deliver efficient healthcare services.

Idahosa, who also benefited from the programme, urged residents to prioritise their oral health and commended the governor for sustaining investments in the sector.

Coordinator of the outreach and Special Adviser on Health Matters to the Governor, Dr. Precious Ogboru, said the programme was part of efforts to deepen public health interventions and officially launch the centre’s dental unit.
He disclosed that the facility now has an in-house dentist available on designated weekdays, offering free consultations and procedures.

Chairman of the Nigerian Dental Association, Edo State Chapter, Prof. Joan Enabulele, said the outreach was aimed at promoting oral health awareness and preventive care among residents.She commended the state government for its support to the association and its commitment to expanding access to dental services.

Also speaking, Consultant Community Dentistry specialist, Dr. Elohor Okuonghae, emphasised the importance of proper oral hygiene, advising residents to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and visit the dentist regularly for check-ups.

Some beneficiaries, including Temidayo Alofa and Franca Osagie, described the initiative as timely and impactful, noting that it provided access to essential healthcare services at no cost.

In addition to dental care, participants also received free medical checks, including blood pressure, blood sugar, and general health screenings.

The outreach underscores the Okpebholo administration’s continued drive to implement people-focused healthcare policies and improve access to quality medical services across Edo State.