Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziak Adekunle Salako, has reiterated his commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s health care system.

This was made known recently when the minister visited the Dental Therapists Registration Board of Nigeria (DThRBN) in Lagos.

Speaking during the visit, the Minister condemned quackery, emphasising that one of his top priorities was to eradicate unlicensed practitioners and eliminate unapproved or non accredited programmes in health training institutions.

He directed the Registrar/CEO of DThRBN to close all training schools that were not in compliance with the regulatory standards.

His directive is aimed at ensuring that only qualified and competent dental professionals under the purview of the Board are licensed to practise, so as to protect the health and well-being of Nigerians.

The visit underscores the ministry’s commitment to promoting quality healthcare services and importance of health regulatory bodies in the progress of the health sector.

In her response, the Registrar/CEO of DThRBN, Mrs. Mercy  Omowumi Ojo said the Board is responsible for regulating the training and professional practice of dental therapists and dental surgery technicians in Nigeria, as well as ensuring that they meet the required standards of education, training and professional competence.

The Minister commended Mrs. Ojo for her outstanding performance, particularly in the area of digitization of  the Board’s activities.

He advised the Board to enhance its initiatives and diversify its efforts to sustain efficiency and cost effectiveness.