Dr Abayomi Olajide, a consultant psychiatrist at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, has called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on mental healthcare and give greater attention to the sector. Olajide made the call on Wednesday during a mental health awareness walk in Abeokuta to commemorate the 2026 World Mental Health Day.
Olajide, who is also Chairman of the Mental Health Action Committee in Ogun, said rising mental health challenges and limited access to treatment required urgent action from government and other stakeholders. He said fewer than 10 per cent of people living with mental health challenges had access to care, with many patients and families relying heavily on out-of-pocket payments for treatment.
The psychiatrist also raised concerns over the increasing prevalence of substance abuse, particularly among young people. He said drug use among secondary school students was becoming a serious concern, while substance-related disorders were also placing significant pressure on mental health facilities. He called for urgent government intervention to address the problem and protect vulnerable groups.
Olajide urged the education sector to play a stronger role in preventing substance abuse by strengthening drug awareness and prevention programmes in schools, universities and polytechnics. He also advocated the establishment of support groups for people struggling with substance use disorders, as well as proper rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for those severely affected.
Also speaking at the event, Dr Chidi Ikwumezie, President of the Association of Resident Doctors at the hospital, said the awareness walk marked the first phase of activities to commemorate World Mental Health Day. He said the 2026 theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” highlighted the need to listen to people’s experiences, challenge stigma and translate conversations around mental health into practical action.
