Experts Warn of Growing Mental Health Crisis in Nigeria
By Afolabi Nelson
Experts have raised concern over Nigeria’s deepening mental health crisis, revealing that at least one in four citizens is living with a diagnosable condition. They linked the rise to unemployment, drug abuse, insecurity, and stigma.
The warning came at a mental health colloquium organized by Lions International Multiple District 404 Nigeria to mark World Mental Health Day. Participants called for urgent government action and more public education to tackle depression, anxiety, and substance-related disorders.
Lagos Health Commissioner, Prof. Emmanuel Abayomi represented by Mr. Joshua Natus highlighted the state’s leadership in mental health advocacy. He mentioned Lagos’ 2009 Mental Health Law, 2011 policy framework, Lagos Mind platform, and Lagos Lifeline helpline as examples of progress.
Prof. Tunji Aina from the University of Lagos said mental health should be treated with the same urgency as physical health. He urged Nigerians to view mental well being as an essential part of overall health.
Panelists, including Prof. Samuel Oluranti, Mr. Samuel Pander, and Lion Ibibia Odili, discussed how hardship and trauma fuel mental distress. They stressed the importance of breaking stigma, promoting healing, and building emotional resilience.
