ISEEA Advocates for Youth Mental Health Support in Nigeria

The Initiative for Self Esteem Education and Advocacy (ISEEA) called on the Federal Government, schools, parents, and stakeholders to provide accessible mental health support for adolescents and young people in Nigeria. Founder and Executive Director Rosemary Ochiwu made this appeal in Abuja during a one-hour awareness road walk and press conference marking the 2026 National Adolescent and Youth Mental Health Week.

Ochiwu emphasized the need for government institutions, healthcare professionals, civil society organizations, and the media to prioritize youth mental health. She urged policymakers to allocate adequate funding and create safe environments for adolescents to discuss their mental health challenges.

Mr Akim Olanipekun, representing the Minister of Youth Development, stated that mental health is crucial for youth development and called for young people's active participation in developing solutions. He stressed the importance of moving from discussions to concrete actions to support mental health initiatives.