Nigerian Experts Urge Mental Health Emergency Declaration

Medical experts in Nigeria are calling for an immediate declaration of a state of emergency on mental health and drug abuse. This appeal comes as the country faces severe economic challenges, high unemployment rates, and persistent insecurity, leading to an unprecedented rise in mental health issues.

Dr. Abayomi Olajide, a Consultant Psychiatrist at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, and Chairman of the Mental Health Action Committee in Ogun State, stated that the historical benchmark of one in four individuals experiencing mental health challenges is now outdated. He emphasized that the incidence of mental health issues has surged due to economic downturns, social vices, and a lack of employment opportunities.

Despite the increasing demand for mental health services, access remains limited, with less than 10% of the population able to receive care, primarily funded out-of-pocket, as health insurance coverage for mental health remains inadequate.