.Focus on youth mental resilience
The Suicide Research and Prevention Initiative of Nigeria (SURPIN) is set to host its annual national conference with a groundbreaking approach that places Nigerian youths at the center of conversations on suicide prevention and mental health. The 2025 conference, scheduled to hold virtually on Saturday, September 27, will highlight young people as not just participants but also panelists, tasked with leading discussions on resilience amidst Nigeria’s tough socio-economic realities.
The conference will take place shortly after the global observance of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, aligning with SURPIN’s tradition of commemorating the occasion days later. This year’s theme, “Building Mental Resilience Amidst Socio-Economic Challenges in Nigeria,” underscores the urgency of engaging youths directly in the mental health dialogue.
In her welcome remarks during a virtual briefing, SURPIN President and Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr. Arit Esangbedo, explained why this year’s conference is youth-centered. “We decided to give secondary school students and undergraduates the opportunity to be panelists and talk about the theme. Participants will cut across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones to share their experiences and discuss resilience in the face of social and economic challenges,” she said.
Esangbedo emphasized that this decision reflects the organization’s recognition of Nigeria’s demographic reality. “Young people make up the majority of Nigeria’s population, yet they are also among the most affected by unemployment, economic hardship, and mental health struggles. It is important that we listen directly to their lived experiences,” she added.
Similarly, Dr. Raphael Ogbolu, Founder of SURPIN, stressed that youth engagement has always been central to the group’s work. “Since inception, the majority of callers to our crisis hotlines have been young people. Considering Nigeria’s youthful population, and that many are in the productive prime of their lives, socio-economic challenges will significantly impact them. It is important we engage young people early to create mental health awareness,” he explained.
Ogbolu also reflected on the uniqueness of the 2025 edition, noting how it builds on past initiatives such as research education, debates, drama, and creative video projects. “What makes this year special is that young people are not just participants but leaders of the dialogue. We want them to tell us directly what they are going through, how they are coping, and the solutions they believe can work,” he said.
Distinguished guests expected at the conference include former Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun will serve as the guest of honour, and Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, who will chair the conference.
By empowering young Nigerians to share their realities and propose solutions, SURPIN aims to inspire resilience, strengthen awareness, and chart a path toward a mentally healthier future for the nation.
