BENIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday attended the 19th Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Association of Orthodontics, with a call on members to embrace technology and innovation to drive development in the health sector.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, said technology and innovation remain central to advancement in healthcare.
He commended the association for its consistency and commitment to advancing oral health in Nigeria.
“Orthodontics is not only about aligning teeth. It is about restoring confidence, improving speech, nutrition, and overall wellbeing. You make people smile with dignity, and that is priceless,” Okpebholo said.
He described the theme of this year’s conference, “Embracing Technology and Innovations in Orthodontics: Pioneering the Future,” as apt and timely. He noted that artificial intelligence is already transforming orthodontic care globally and urged delegates to ensure such innovations are accessible, affordable, and safe for Nigerians.
Earlier, the President of the Nigerian Association of Orthodontics (NAO), Dr. Olayinka Adeyinka, highlighted the crucial role of orthodontists in correcting and managing malocclusions, which, if untreated, could have severe functional and psychological effects.
He explained that orthodontists also play a vital role in managing and rehabilitating children born with cleft lip and palate, often from low-income families, by providing timely and specialized interventions.
Adeyinka, while emphasizing the importance of orthodontics in healthcare delivery, wished the incoming President of the association, Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, a successful tenure as she takes on the leadership of the NAO.
