Communique of the 36th Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Association of Dental Technologists of Nigeria

Communique of the 36th Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting of The Association of Dental Technologists Of Nigeria (ADTN) Held Between 10-11 October 2024 In Mini-conference Hall OAUTHC, Ile-ife Osun State

The President of the federal republic of Nigeria:

The Honorable members of legislative arm Federal Republic of Nigeria The Chairman, Nigeria Governors forum and its members The Honorable minister of Health All Traditional rulers and its council of the Federal republic of Nigeria

Citizens of the Federal republic of Nigeria

GISTS O

Preamble

The 36 Scientific Conference of the Association of Dental Technologists of Nigeria (ADTN) took place at the Mini-hall of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching hospital complex lle Ife, Osun State, from October 10th to 11th, 2024. The conference highlighted the importance of advocacy and politics in enhancing the profession of dental technology in Nigeria.

The opening ceremony took place under the distinguished chairmanship of Air Commodore Bulus Mathew Bunjea (std), a seasoned Dental Technologist who served the profession of dental technology in the Nigerian Air force.

The theme of the Conference was “The Role of Advocacy and Politics in Dental Technology Practice in Nigeria”. The thematic lecture was delivered by the Guest speaker Professor Eyitope Ogunbodede, the former Vice Chancelor of Obafemi Awolowo University Ife Osun state.

Member Dental Technologists equally made series of outstanding scientific paper presentations which covered topics related to the subthemes. The ADTN Fellowship awards took place in grand style where 15 deserving members were robed and inducted into the fellowship award of ADTN as proof of their excellence and dedication to the profession.

The following day witnessed the Annual General Meeting of the Association which was ably presided over by the National President, Comr. Eyarefe 0. Stephen.

RESOLUTIONS AND CALL FOR ACTION

1) State of the nation: Nigeria, a nation rich in resources and diversity, faces significant challenges. Economic hardships, including rising inflation and fuel scarcity, have impacted the lives of many citizens. Security concerns, particularly in the northeast and northwest regions, remain a pressing issue. Political instability and corruption continue to hinder progress. However, there are pockets of resilience and innovation, with a vibrant youth population driving positive change. Nigeria’s future hinges on addressing these challenges through effective governance, economic reforms, and social development. While the ADTN President commended the measures taken by the Federal Government and the States governments in tackling the challenges for a better Nigeria, he charged the government to pursue programs of livelihood for citizens. In the same vein, the ADTN also called on the government at all levels to pay attention to the plights of health workers especially dental technologists, so as to give them a common ground for productivity in the healthcare sector.

2) Disclaimer on Dental Surgery Technology Nomenclature: The Association of Dental Technologists of Nigeria (ADTN) expresses deep concern regarding the recent introduction of the nomenclature “Dental Surgery Technology” by the Dental Therapists Registration Board of Nigeria (DTHRBN). ADTN views this nomenclature as a misrepresentation of the core competencies and scope of practice of dental technology professionals. Dental technology is a specialized field that requires a unique set of skills and knowledge to design, fabricate, and repair dental prostheses and appliances. The proposed nomenclature has the potential to erode the professional identity of dental technologists and undermine the integrity of the dental technology profession in Nigeria. ADTN urges the DTHRBN to reconsider this decision and respect the established boundaries and scope of practice of dental technology. ADTN remains committed to protecting the interests of dental technologists and ensuring the highest standards of oral healthcare in Nigeria. In this regard, the public should note that the nomenclature dental surgery technology is unfounded and should not be applauded by Nigerians as it negates global acceptance. The globally accepted nomenclature for this category of professionals in dentistry is Dental Surgery Assisting.

3) Keynote Speeches: Distinguished speakers addressed topics such as professional influence in politics, advocacy, patient-centered care, professional growth, inter professional collaboration, addressing social and health inequities.

4) Fellowship Award Induction on 15 Members: For the first time, ADTN leadership conferred fellowship award using robes in the ceremony on such a large number of persons. These newly inducted fellows formed the basis

for the inauguration of the ADTN College of Fellows with a mandate to be play advisory role to the ADTN leadership at all times. 5) Annual General Meeting: The Annual General Meeting was presided over by the President of the Association, Comrade Eyarefe O. Stephen where issues of importance were discussed and resolutions reached. Some of the
issues deliberated upon are financial matters, constitution review, dental surgery technology saga and future plans.

6) Election of ADTN Students Wing: The first president and other executive members of the ADTN Students Wing were elected and sworn in by the

President Comr Eyarefe O. Stephen who charged them to be of good stead as they pilot the affairs of the student body of ADTN for the next one year.

The conference concluded with a call to action, urging dental technologists to
ctively engage in advocacy and political processes to improve the profession and
enhance patient care.

Long Live ADTN!!

Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!

Communiqué Committee

Rt Come Chishoeu Andrew Akam (Chairman)