The Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN) has condemned the recent multiple bomb blasts in Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attacks as a cruel act that has left deep pain across the country.

In a communiqué signed by the association’s President, Dr Veronica Oluyemisi Nyamali, and Secretary General, Prof Kingsley Mayowa Okonoda, on Wednesday, the group said it received the news with profound grief, shock, and outrage over the attacks, which reportedly claimed lives and left many others injured.

The association added, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones, and we stand in solidarity with the survivors, the people of Maiduguri, our colleagues psychiatrists in Maiduguri, the Government and people of Borno State, and all Nigerians at this painful time.”

The psychiatrists also condemned the violence, saying, The APN unequivocally condemns this cruel and inhuman act of violence against innocent citizens.

It added that such incidents were “not only assaults on human lives and physical safety, but also grave assaults on the psychological stability, social fabric, and collective wellbeing of the nation.”

The group called on the Federal Government and security agencies to act quickly, saying, “We call on the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to take immediate, coordinated, and decisive steps to secure the lives and property of all citizens.”

“The protection of human life is the foremost duty of government, and Nigerians must be able to live, work, worship, trade, and travel without fear,” it added.

The association warned that traumatic incidents such as bomb blasts often leave long-lasting mental health effects on victims and communities. It said survivors, bereaved families, first responders and witnesses could suffer “acute stress reactions, post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, complicated grief, substance misuse, survivor guilt, panic symptoms, and worsening of pre-existing mental health conditions.”

The psychiatrists also said vulnerable groups such as children, adolescents, older persons and people already living with mental illness could be badly affected. According to the communiqué, “Exposure to repeated insecurity can also normalize fear, deepen social withdrawal, and erode resilience within families and communities.”

It added that the impact of insecurity goes beyond the immediate victims, saying, “Widespread insecurity and psychological trauma disrupt family functioning, education, commerce, healthcare utilization, workforce efficiency, social trust, and community cohesion.” The group said this could weaken development and increase pressure on the health system.

The association called for stronger security in Maiduguri and other vulnerable communities, immediate psychosocial support for victims, and the integration of mental health services into emergency response systems. It also urged the media, religious leaders and community leaders to promote calm and avoid sensationalism.
The group said it remained ready to work with government, health institutions and humanitarian agencies to strengthen trauma care in affected communities. It added, “At this solemn moment, we reaffirm that every Nigerian life matters. No society can thrive where citizens live under persistent fear.”