A recent report by the World Health Organisation reveals that approximately 20 million Nigerians—around 20% of the country’s population—live with mental health conditions. This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for increased awareness, resources, and action to address Nigeria’s mental health challenges.

During a mental health training session in Owerri, Azubike Aliche, Secretary of the Board of Trustees at the Nigeria-American Institute for Mental Health (NAIMH), emphasised the importance of grassroots initiatives. The training, organised in partnership with the Centre for Social Awareness, Advocacy, and Ethics (CSAAE), was funded by the Nigeria Mental Health Practitioners (NMHP) USA Incorporated. Its goal is to empower non-psychiatrist health workers to identify mental health symptoms and collaborate on managing these conditions effectively.

Aliche described Nigeria’s mental health landscape as “alarming,” citing reports that Nigeria has the highest rates of depression globally. He called for deliberate efforts to change the current narrative, highlighting that only 10% of those living with mental illness have access to care, a statistic that must improve if Nigeria is to combat this crisis effectively.

Rev. Sr Josephine Nzeke, an Executive Member of NMHP USA, explained that the four-day training will initially reach 25 healthcare professionals, with five selected from each of Imo State’s five council areas. These trained professionals will serve as vital resources in their local communities, providing grassroots mental health support.

The event was also attended by Dr. Chioma Egu, Nigeria’s Commissioner for Health, who described the mental health challenge as a “global issue”. She urged NAIMH to leverage existing government policies to strengthen mental health services nationwide.

Mr. Justice Ulunta from the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu, called for increased government investment in mental health. He emphasised the need for adequate resources and well-equipped facilities to train more mental health specialists.

CSAAE’s Chief Operations Officer, Miss Francisca Ekwonu, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to collaboration. She mentioned their grassroots-focused initiative, the C-Health program, which aims to promote mental health awareness and support across Nigeria. She also reminded the public about their toll-free helpline, 08009001000, where mental health support specialists are available to assist.

As young Nigerians face societal and economic hardships, the importance of accessible mental health services becomes ever more crucial. Together, through collaborative efforts and targeted training, Nigeria can begin to turn the tide against its mental health crisis.