The Chartered Institute of Counselling in Nigeria has empowered 97 mental health and clinical family coaching professionals.

The Executive Director, Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire, disclosed that the academy is concerned about Nigeria facing a growing emotional and psychological crisis that requires urgent professional intervention.

The event attracted health practitioners, captains of industry, students and stakeholders from across the country in Lagos. She said the ceremony went beyond academic success and represented a national call to action.

“Today is not just a celebration. Nigeria is facing a silent mental health crisis, yet less than one per cent of Nigerians are aware they can access professional psychological support,” she said.

Oko-Igaire cautioned Nigerians against relying on untrained social media advisers and religious figures for emotional support, stressing that counselling is a scientific and ethical profession.

“We see too many self-acclaimed counsellors online. Counselling is not about giving advice from your head. It is evidence-based, people-centred and professionally guided,” she said.

She added that many Nigerians rush to religious houses when faced with emotional challenges but ignore trained therapists.

“The religious leaders love you, but the therapist understands your mind. Doctors take care of your body; therapists take care of your mind,” she said.

The Registrar of the Institute, Sunday Olagoke Olaitan, urged the new counsellors to prioritise ethics and character in their practice.

“People will entrust you with their fears, vulnerabilities and life decisions. Your knowledge and skills are important, but your ethical conduct will define your credibility and effectiveness,” he said.

Earlier, Board Chairman of CICN, Pastor Wale Adefarasin, charged the graduands to uphold professional standards and see themselves as agents of social healing.

“Africa does not just need professionals; it needs conscious healers trained to restore dignity, rebuild identity and guide others towards emotional wholeness,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, best graduating student, Chidinma Abiakalam, said the training changed her perception of counselling.

“People think counselling is just talking, but it is structured, ethical and rooted in understanding how the human mind works. We help clients develop coping strategies, not just give advice,” she said.

Another graduand, George Bolorunduro Oluwaseun, said professional counselling offers a healthier alternative to fear-based approaches.

“Counselling is about listening and clarity, not threats or coercion. When people see the consequences of their choices, they take responsibility and change,” he said.

The ceremony also featured the conferment of honorary fellowships on former Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode and Dr. (Mrs) Laila Jean St Matthew-Daniel, in recognition of their outstanding service to society.