Advocates Push for Mental Health Rights and Care in 2026

During the 2026 World Mental Health Day held in Maitama, Abuja, mental health advocates and stakeholders called for the protection of individuals experiencing mental health conditions, making treatment more affordable, and integrating psychological support into various healthcare sectors. Dr Ameh Zion Abba, founder of The Mandate Health Empowerment Initiative and convener of the Association of Mental Health Reform Organisations in Africa, emphasized that mental health is central to human dignity and public health.

He pointed out the barriers to care, including inadequate funding, high treatment costs, and stigma. Abba introduced Africa MAMA CARE, a maternal mental health initiative aimed at improving awareness and support for women and families.

He urged the federal government and other authorities to strengthen protections for those with mental health conditions and to ensure that survivors of suicide attempts receive appropriate care. Other stakeholders, including Dr Mrs Henrietta Okechukwu and Madam Ene Obi, discussed the financial pressures families face when seeking mental healthcare.