The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) has urged state governments to domesticate the Mental Health Act 2021 to tackle the challenges limiting access to mental health services across Nigeria.
Speaking during a virtual programme to mark this year’s World Mental Health Day, YALI National President, Dr. Ajanson Peter, said the failure of many states to implement the Act has worsened the plight of Nigerians living with mental health conditions.
He noted that without proper domestication, the rights of people with mental illnesses continue to be violated, while discrimination against them remains widespread.
Citing World Health Organisation (WHO) data, Ajanson said that about 20 percent of Nigerians — roughly 40 million people — suffer from mental health disorders.
He added that depression and anxiety remain the most common conditions, with an estimated seven million Nigerians affected by depressive disorders and nearly five million by anxiety disorders as of 2017.
YALI called on governments at all levels, as well as donors and humanitarian partners, to expand access to Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) services.
“Without adequate investment, other humanitarian efforts in health, protection, education, nutrition, and livelihoods will be undermined. With sufficient resources and commitment, mental health care can reach even those in the most difficult circumstances,” Ajanson said.
He commended the Federal Government for the passage of the National Mental Health Act (2021), the establishment of the National Suicide Prevention Strategic Framework (2023–2030), and the National Mental Health Policy (2023).
However, he stressed that “more work needs to be done” to ensure these frameworks are fully implemented nationwide.
Also speaking, psychologist and mental health expert Yetunde Awobode called for increased support for people with mental health conditions and cautioned against stigmatization.
In her contribution, psychotherapist and relationship counsellor Tezzy Ilozue highlighted the prevalence of postpartum depression among women, urging stronger emotional and practical support from husbands and family members after childbirth.
