A renowned academic don at the Faculty of Education, Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Biodun Akinpelu, has passionately urged the government at all levels to take deliberate and purposeful actions to address mental health challenges among youths, especially those in tertiary institutions.

He made the appeal during the formal presentation of a book titled “Awakening Joy: The Mental Health Perspective,” a compelling new book authored by Uju Okwuokei, who uniquely blends her professional insight and experience early in life with a deep commitment to mental wellness.

Akinpelu, while speaking to an audience comprising students, dignitaries, guests and mental health advocates, emphasised the urgent need for targeted policies and support systems that nurture the psychological well-being of young Nigerians.

He said: “The way our youths barb their hair, sag and tattoo their bodies, I see it as a mental health problem. It’s a serious issue. In LASU, we noted that appearance is an indication of your health and mental well-being. Your appearance is an index of mental well-being. So, in the Faculty of Education, we ask them how they would feel if I appeared like this in your class as a professor, then you say a madman came to my class today.”

“This attitude on the part of our youths is spreading to universities. The worst part of it is that we are not preparing teachers who will wear such appearances. Are we preparing for the future that way? How do they motivate our children? What is the future looking like, sagging, having dreadlocks and unique appearances with tattoos all over the body? So, we are in a serious problem.”

He, however, expressed appreciation to the Niger State Government for its effort to tackle the problem of indecent dressing among youths through enforcement.

“We need to be deliberate and purposeful about transforming the society. The governments should make a law prohibiting this kind of indecent attitude and mode of dressing. They can do it through the universities,” he said.

According to him, the book being launched today, “Awakening Joy, the Mental Health Perspective,” is very interesting and relevant in a nation where we have so many mental problems, adding that the youth should be encouraged to read the book.

“The book launch not only highlighted the growing awareness around mental health but also underscored the power of storytelling in breaking stigma. The book offers practical perspectives and hopeful narratives aimed at empowering readers to understand and manage mental health challenges effectively,” he further said.