The Federal Government (FG) has reaffirmed its recognition of the vital role dental technologists play in advancing Nigeria’s healthcare system, pledging continued support to strengthen the profession.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, gave the assurance on Thursday, while declaring open the maiden Dental Technologists Summit at the National Merit Award House, Abuja.
Dr Salako while addressing participants on the theme, “Dental Technologists: Past, Present and Future,” commended the Dental Technologists Registration Board of Nigeria (DTRBN) for convening practitioners, policymakers, students, and researchers to reflect on the profession’s evolution and chart a progressive roadmap.
He explained that dental technologists provide critical behind-the-scenes services in healthcare, fabricating custom dental appliances that restore smiles, improve oral health, and aid patient rehabilitation in specialties such as ENT, oncology, paediatrics, and ophthalmology.
Reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Dr Salako said the administration of President Bola Tinubu is determined to improve health outcomes by taking services closer to communities.
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He emphasised that the technical expertise of dental technologists is crucial in restorative, cosmetic, and orthodontic dentistry.
“Your skills, knowledge of materials, and ability to utilize modern technologies are essential for optimal patient outcomes,” he stated.
The minister also charged the DTRBN to intensify efforts to curb quackery by adopting digital tools for indexing students, registering practitioners, and renewing annual licences.
Such measures, he said, would preserve the profession’s credibility and ensure only qualified personnel are allowed to practise.
He further encouraged dental technologists to embrace innovation, adopt modern materials in prosthetic production, and stay abreast of global advancements to deliver efficient and comfortable patient care.
Describing the summit as a “golden opportunity” for knowledge sharing and collaboration, Dr Salako urged participants to discuss challenges, share best practices, and propose practical solutions that could reshape the future of dental technology in Nigeria.
He said that the summit should serve as a launchpad for innovation, standardisation, and professional pride in your field.
The gathering is expected to provide strategic direction for the development of dental technology in the country while strengthening cooperation among stakeholders.
