Emmanuel Daudu
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s mental health system, especially in conflict-affected regions, as the country joined the global community to mark the 2025 World Mental Health Day under the theme “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”
The WHO Nigeria Country Representative, Dr Pavel Ursu, made this known in a speech delivered on his behalf by Dr Mary Dewan, Technical Officer for Noncommunicable Diseases, during the Ministerial Press Conference held in Abuja to commemorate the Day.
Dr Ursu expressed delight at being part of this year’s event, which began with a two-day advocacy and stakeholder engagement in Maiduguri, Borno State, from October 6 to 7, culminating in the press briefing organized by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
He commended the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and the team from the National Mental Health Programme for their leadership and commitment to the prevention and management of mental health conditions in Nigeria.
“I must begin by commending Professor Ali Pate and his team for their leadership and commitment on the prevention and management of mental health conditions in Nigeria,” he stated, while acknowledging the tireless efforts of all stakeholders working to advance mental health services across the country.
Speaking on this year’s theme, Dr Ursu noted that the commemoration serves as a powerful reminder that mental health must be safeguarded before, during, and after crises.
He explained that emergencies including conflicts, disease outbreaks, and natural disasters disrupt lives, fracture communities, and often leave long-term psychological scars.
“While nearly everyone affected by such crises experiences emotional distress, one in five will face a mental health condition requiring professional care,” he observed, adding that mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services remain inadequately integrated into emergency preparedness and response across much of the African Region.
He also referenced the World Health Assembly’s landmark resolution of May 2024, which called for MHPSS to be embedded in all phases of emergency response, alongside the WHO Regional Framework guiding member states to strengthen mental health systems and disaster risk reduction.
Highlighting WHO’s continued support to Nigeria, Dr Ursu stated that the Organization has worked with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and partners to develop policies and frameworks for the prevention and management of mental health disorders.
In the North-East, where humanitarian challenges persist, WHO collaborated with the governments of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States, as well as the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital and other stakeholders, to build the capacity of healthcare workers and integrate mental health services into primary and secondary healthcare systems.
Through these interventions, WHO also supported outreach programmes, the procurement of essential psychotropic medicines, and facilitated the renovation of the State Psychiatric Hospital in Maiduguri.
Additionally, the Organization supported the development of the Borno State Mental Health Strategic Framework, a key document guiding coordinated mental health response in the region.
“These efforts exemplify how targeted investment in mental health can build resilience and restore hope,” Dr Ursu remarked.
In conclusion, the WHO Country Representative urged stakeholders to renew their commitment to building stronger and more resilient health systems capable of delivering mental health services, especially in times of crisis.
“Let us continue to advocate for increased investments, coordinated action, and the full integration of mental health into every phase of emergency preparedness and response,” he said.
“Together, we can ensure that mental health support is not only available but truly accessible when it is most needed offering hope, healing, and dignity to all communities.”
The 2025 World Mental Health Day commemoration underscores the urgent need for sustained partnerships, adequate funding, and system-wide reforms to make mental health care accessible to all, especially those affected by emergencies.
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