EKSU's Francis Ibimiluyi Advocates for Adolescent Mental Health

On October 21, 2026, Professor Francis Ibimiluyi, a Professor of Guidance and Counselling at Ekiti State University (EKSU), delivered the university's 109th inaugural lecture titled ‘Complexities of Adolescent Development: Counselling Psychology as a Navigator’ at the University Auditorium in Ado Ekiti. He called on governments at all levels to prioritize school counselling and adolescent mental health, warning that neglecting these issues could jeopardize the future human capital of Nigeria.

Ibimiluyi highlighted the various challenges faced by Nigerian adolescents, including identity crises, peer pressure, academic stress, family expectations, substance abuse, and cyberbullying. He advocated for the deployment of qualified guidance counsellors in schools, increased funding for counselling programs, and the establishment of well-equipped counselling units.

Additionally, he urged parents to foster supportive home environments and called for community participation in promoting adolescent mental health through counselling programs and public awareness campaigns.