Mental Health: NGO Reiterates Commitment To Awareness, Economic Development

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), the African Union Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, has announced plans to host a symposium and workshop focused on mental health awareness, aimed at curbing the mental health crisis to promote economic growth.

The organisation stated that the event, scheduled in observance of World Mental Health Day on October 10th, aims to bring together key stakeholders from across Nigeria and Africa.

The speaker of the Ambassadorial Assembly Agenda 2063, Emmanuel Egejume Square, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja.

He said the goal is to foster crucial conversations on mental health and its impact on development, as well as to ensure broad participation from various sectors.

“The overarching objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness about mental health issues globally and inspire efforts to support mental well-being,” he said.

Square emphasised the global significance of mental health, adding, “World Mental Health Day is an opportunity for us, as the Ambassadorial Assembly, to contribute to the global dialogue. With the Mental Health Act already signed in Nigeria and other African countries, it’s crucial that we raise awareness and ensure citizens know what support is available.”

On her part, the chairman of the social affairs and health committee, Sa’adatu Adamu, noted that the symposium will focus on implementing the Mental Health Act at the state and local levels, aiming to improve access to mental health care, medications, and essential services.

She urged state governments to prioritize this legislation to ensure that individuals struggling with mental health challenges receive the care they need.

“The Mental Health Act is a major milestone, but its true success will come from effective implementation at every level,” she said. “We call on states to evaluate how they can operationalize this Act within their communities. People need accessible mental health services, from medical care to basic medications.”

Adamu underscored the pivotal role of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Youth in advocating for mental health awareness, acknowledging their ongoing contributions.

She also highlighted the direct link between mental well-being and national economic prosperity.

“A mentally stable population is the foundation of a thriving economy. When people are healthy, productivity rises, and the entire nation reaps the benefits,” she added.

She stressed that the upcoming symposium is expected to draw attention of local and international mental health advocates, healthcare professionals, and policymakers.