The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network, Oyo State, has taken its mental health awareness campaign to the Bodija Motor Park in Ibadan, educating commercial drivers on stress management, emotional well-being and the importance of seeking help when overwhelmed.

The outreach, themed “Beyond the Steering: Conversations on Stress, Strength and Mental Wellness,” was aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding mental health among commercial drivers and other informal sector workers.

During the awareness walk, YALI members engaged drivers and other park users in one-on-one and small group discussions on the need to prioritise mental health, while distributing more than 100 educational handbills on stress management and mental wellness.

The group noted that commercial drivers often contend with long working hours, traffic congestion, rising fuel costs and economic uncertainties, factors that could negatively affect their mental health if left unaddressed.

Speaking on the initiative, the State Coordinator of YALI Network, Oyo State, Israel Alabi, said the campaign was designed to reach underserved and often overlooked members of society with vital mental health education.

According to him, the organisation remains committed to promoting inclusive community development through its SCALE agenda, ensuring that no segment of society is left behind.

Alabi stressed that mental health should receive the same attention as physical health, urging members of the public to speak up about emotional challenges and seek professional help when necessary.

He added that taking mental health advocacy beyond hospitals and social media to grassroots communities such as motor parks would help reduce stigma and encourage more people to seek support.

The organisation said the initiative forms part of its broader efforts to improve public awareness of mental health issues and foster healthier communities across Oyo State.