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RMAFC Reaffirms Commitment to Boost Revenue from Mining Sector

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing revenue generation from Nigeria’s mining sector through improved data collection, monitoring, and accountability mechanisms.

This assurance came during a sensitization workshop on the Commission’s new data rendition template for the South East Zone, held on Thursday in Enugu. The initiative is part of RMAFC’s efforts to bridge gaps in the remittance of revenues generated from the mining sector into the Federation Account.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, emphasized that despite the scale of mining activities across the country, the sector contributes only marginally to national revenue due to poor monitoring and ineffective data systems.

“It has been established that despite the extent of activities going on in the mining sector, it contributes only a negligible amount to the Federation Account,” Dr. Shehu noted. “Hence, it is the intention of the Commission to ensure that all revenues due to the Federation are promptly remitted as and when due.”

Represented by the Federal Commissioner representing the Federal Capital Territory, Ambassador Ayuba Jacob Ngbako, Dr. Shehu explained that the newly designed data rendition templates would improve the accuracy and timeliness of information on mineral production, company operations, and payments such as licenses, fees, and permits.

Representative of the Enugu State governor, Hon Franklin Ogbonna, delivering his goodwill message

According to him, effective data management will help track and account for mining activities and revenue, significantly boosting the sector’s contribution to the national purse.

Dr. Shehu also stressed the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s revenue sources amid current economic challenges, pointing out that overreliance on hydrocarbons has exposed the nation to global oil market fluctuations and other risks. He reaffirmed RMAFC’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration in harnessing potentials in other sectors such as solid minerals, agriculture, manufacturing, and the blue economy.

In a goodwill message, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, represented by the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Hon. Franklin Ogbonna, described the initiative as a significant step towards establishing a reliable framework for resource monitoring and revenue allocation.

“Accurate data is the foundation of sound policy formulation and effective revenue management,” he said. “It enables both Federal and State Governments to assess real production figures, close leakages, and ensure that due revenues are remitted for the benefit of all Nigerians.”

The governor further commended RMAFC’s efforts, noting that the new framework aligns with Enugu State’s drive to reposition its solid minerals sector as a key contributor to internally generated revenue and economic diversification.

In his welcome address, the Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State, Hon. Ozo Obodougo Obumneme, said the initiative aims to establish a platform for independent, error-free data sources that can serve as a reliable reference for the Commission’s revenue attributions.

Other dignitaries who commended the Commission’s efforts included Hon. Onyia Emmanuel, Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Ebonyi State; Prof. Joel Ogbonna, Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Abia State; Hon. Tony Nwabuno, Commissioner for Local Government, Anambra State; and Mrs. Obialor Angela, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Mines and Minerals, Imo State.

The sensitization workshop in Enugu is part of a nationwide exercise covering all six geopolitical zones. It commenced in Abuja on October 7, 2025, and continued in Asaba, Delta State, for the South-South region on October 13, 2025.

Businessman Cries Out as ₦500 Million Mansion Demolished in FESTAC by FHA, Task Force

Maryam Aminu

A Lagos-based civil engineer, Mr. Macdonald Ejiofor Okwor from Enugu state, has expressed deep anguish over the demolition of his ₦500 million mansion by officials of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) and operatives of the Lagos State Task Force at 6th Avenue, FESTAC Town, on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

Ejiofor, 48, described the incident as a devastating loss of “years of labour and dreams,” alleging that the demolition was carried out without due notice, even while his family was still inside the building.

According to him, FHA officials, policemen, and hired thugs stormed his property at Plot 1892, Route 65, Caravan Estate, with bulldozers, pulling down the multi-million-naira structure despite an existing court order mandating all parties to maintain the status quo in an ongoing ownership dispute.

He said he legally acquired the land from the Kuje family in 2016, based on a Federal High Court ruling that favoured the family’s ownership of the area. However, he began facing challenges after moving into the property nine months ago when a lawyer claimed to have been allotted the same plot by the FHA.

“They came with bulldozers while my wife was still inside,” Ejiofor recounted tearfully. “People were shouting, telling them someone was in the house, but they ignored them. My furniture, machines, documents, and passports were all buried under the debris.”

Ejiofor also alleged that when he attempted to access the property the next day, Task Force operatives arrested him, his wife, and his brother, accusing them of obstructing the operation. He claimed they were beaten, detained at the Task Force cell in Oshodi, and forced to sign an undertaking not to return to the property.

When Vanguard visited the area, over 15 buildings had already been reduced to rubble as bulldozers continued pulling down structures along 6th Avenue and adjoining roads. Traders were seen hurriedly salvaging goods, while others watched helplessly beside the wreckage.

Several residents accused the FHA of selective demolition, alleging that some privately developed buildings were targeted while others were spared.

A former Commissioner for Information in Anambra State, Mr. Paul Nwosu, described the exercise as inhumane and lacking due process.

“If you look closely, you’ll see clear setbacks. These buildings align with others that weren’t touched,” Nwosu said. “Destroying people’s investments without notice is wicked. Even if they didn’t have permits, they could have been asked to regularize.”

Reacting to the allegations, the Lagos State Task Force denied claims that its operatives brutalized residents or arbitrarily arrested Ejiofor’s family.

According to a statement signed by the agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, those arrested were individuals who allegedly attacked officials with stones and dangerous objects in an attempt to stop the lawful demolition.

“Preventing law enforcement officers from performing their duties is a criminal offence,” said CSP Adetayo Akerele, the Task Force Chairman, who also warned against attempts to bribe officials during enforcement operations.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has distanced itself from the demolition, stating that it was not involved in the exercise.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, clarified that the state government follows strict procedures before carrying out any demolition, which include proper notice and engagement with affected persons.

“Any demolition done without authorization from the state does not represent this administration’s position,” Dr. Olumide emphasized.

Efforts to obtain a response from the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) were unsuccessful. However, some FHA concessionaires who spoke off record claimed that the demolished properties were not acquired from the Authority, urging the affected owners to produce valid ownership documents.

UNILORIN Honours Oyetola, Unveils Blue Economy Research Centre

Emmanuel Daudu

In a remarkable celebration of leadership and innovation, the University of Ilorin on Thursday, October 16, 2025, conferred an Honorary Fellowship on the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, for his outstanding contributions to national development and visionary service to Nigeria.

The recognition, which took place during the institution’s 1st Distinguished Lecture and Conferment of Award Ceremony at the University Auditorium, also featured the unveiling of the Adegboyega Oyetola Centre for Blue and Regenerative Economy a landmark initiative to promote research, innovation, and sustainable development in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The event, organised by the UNILORIN Centre for Advancement, was graced by dignitaries including the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who was also conferred an Honorary Fellowship, traditional rulers, government representatives, academics, and students.

Delivering the maiden distinguished lecture titled “The Nexus Between Blue Economy and Higher Education for Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” Dr. Oyetola underscored the immense potential of the blue economy as a driver of sustainable national growth.

He noted that Nigeria’s 853-kilometre coastline and extensive waterways could transform the economy through strategic investment in education, innovation, and strong governance.

“The blue economy is not just about exploiting marine resources, it is about creating a balance between economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion,” he said.

The Minister revealed that reforms within the Ministry have significantly improved revenue, rising from ₦700.79 billion in 2023 to ₦1.39 trillion in 2024, driven by transparency and operational efficiency rather than tariff hikes.

Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Oyetola mentioned the National Seafarers Development Programme, which trains 1,000 youths annually for maritime careers, and the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise ports, expand aquaculture, and boost food security.

He reaffirmed the importance of public-private collaboration in sustaining progress, citing the Lekki Deep Sea Port and upcoming projects in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Ondo, and Rivers States as key catalysts for job creation and foreign investment.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), commended Dr. Oyetola and Governor AbdulRazaq for their transformative leadership and commitment to national progress.

The unveiling of the Adegboyega Oyetola Centre for Blue and Regenerative Economy marked the high point of the ceremony. The Centre is expected to serve as a hub for research, policy innovation, and youth capacity building in sustainable marine management.

NSCC Hosts Goodwill Ambassadors, Reaffirms Commitment to Senior Citizens’ Welfare

Emmanuel Daudu

The Director-General of the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), Hon. Omobolanle Akinyemi-Obe, on Tuesday, October 15, 2025, received the NSCC Goodwill Ambassadors at the Centre’s headquarters in Abuja. The delegation was led by veteran broadcaster and National Coordinator, Olorogun Peter Igho.

The visit brought together distinguished senior citizens who have made remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s development across various sectors. They reaffirmed their commitment to promoting the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of older persons in the country.

In her remarks, Hon. Akinyemi-Obe commended the Ambassadors for their continued dedication and service, describing them as “living examples of resilience and inspiration.” She reiterated the Centre’s resolve to create impactful programmes that enhance the quality of life for senior citizens nationwide.

“The NSCC remains steadfast in ensuring that ageing in Nigeria is embraced with respect, joy, and opportunity,” she said.

The Goodwill Ambassadors pledged to continue supporting the Centre’s advocacy for an inclusive society where every elderly person can age gracefully and thrive.

FRC Boss Tasks NSITF on Operating Surplus Remittance… Reaffirms Commitment to Fiscal Transparency and National Development

Maryam Aminu

In a renewed push for fiscal accountability and good governance, the Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Victor Muruako, Esq., has urged the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) to ensure timely remittance of its operating surplus to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007.

Muruako made the call during a presentation by the NSITF Abuja Region on the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) to officials of the Commission at the FRC headquarters in Abuja.

Commending the NSITF for its pivotal role in safeguarding the welfare of Nigerian workers, the FRC boss emphasized that fiscal discipline and transparency remain the bedrock of sustainable national development. “Our oversight mandate is not punitive,” Muruako explained. “It is designed to strengthen transparency, fiscal prudence, and corporate governance across all government-owned enterprises. We urge the NSITF to continue aligning its operations with these standards while improving service delivery to Nigerian workers and employers.”

He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to deepening collaboration with agencies such as the NSITF to ensure that social protection initiatives operate within the framework of fiscal responsibility thereby promoting accountability, trust, and efficiency in public financial management.

Responding, the leader of the NSITF delegation, Mr. Bello Collins, reiterated the Fund’s commitment to workplace safety, employee welfare, and rehabilitation, stressing that the prevention of workplace injuries remains central to the Employees’ Compensation Scheme.

“No one wants to sustain an injury or lose a life while working,” Collins said. “That is why the NSITF continues to prioritize occupational safety and health awareness as a key part of its mandate.”

He outlined several ongoing initiatives by the Fund, including:

Routine workplace inspections by Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) officers to enforce compliance with safety standards;

Nationwide Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) awareness programs targeting over 25,000 employers;

Collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) under the Safety at Work Intervention Project (SWIP); and

Active engagement in the amendment process of the National Safety and Health Council Bill at the National Assembly.

Collins noted that these initiatives align with the Fund’s broader vision of building a socially secure, economically empowered, and fiscally responsible Nigeria, consistent with the national fiscal responsibility framework.

Championing Change: Zeenat Adamu Joins The People’s Project to Drive Financial Strategy

Maryam Aminu

In a move that reinforces its commitment to transparency, growth, and youth inclusion, The People’s Project for Social and Climate Justice (TPP) has welcomed Zeenat Adamu as its new Finance Officer.

With more than seven years of experience in banking, fintech, nonprofit, and service sectors, Zeenat brings proven expertise in financial management and strategic operations. She has successfully managed budgets exceeding ₦100 million, mobilized over ₦10 million in project funding, and streamlined processes that improved efficiency by 97 percent in her previous role.

A graduate of the University of Abuja, Zeenat holds a Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. She is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) known for her skills in budgeting, policy implementation, and resource mobilization.

Her passion for youth development is evident through her leadership in organizing leadership and digital skills boot camps for girls aged 14–24 across Northern and Middle Belt Nigeria a vision that strongly aligns with TPP’s flagship initiative, Boys Champions.

Noel Ifeanyi Alumona, Founder and CEO of TPP, expressed his excitement about Zeenat’s appointment, saying
“Zeenat’s lived experience deeply resonates with the heart of our mission, especially the work we do at Boys Champions. Her understanding of the challenges faced by young people and her ability to translate that into systems of accountability and growth is inspiring. We are confident that her expertise will elevate our operations as we scale our impact.”

Reflecting on her new role, Zeenat said

“I am deeply inspired by the work of The People’s Project, especially its focus on empowering youth and marginalized communities. Joining this team is more than just a career step; it’s a calling to be part of a movement that is transforming lives and shaping a just future.”

As Finance Officer, Zeenat will oversee TPP’s financial strategy, ensuring that resources are effectively managed to support and expand the organization’s programs. Her leadership will be instrumental as TPP continues to champion human rights, social and climate justice, and inclusive growth across Africa and beyond.

The People’s Project (TPP) is a nonprofit organization registered in Nigeria and the United States. Its mission is to champion human rights, fight for social and climate justice, and strengthen democracy by ensuring that every community has a voice. Through initiatives such as Boys Champions, HOPE, Learning Without Limits, and the DearMen Podcast, TPP empowers marginalized groups and nurtures young leaders to build a fairer and more inclusive world.

WHO Welcomes New Country Representative to Nigeria, Presents Credentials to Foreign Affairs Ministry

Emmanuel Daudu

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially welcomed Dr. Pavel Ursu as its new Country Representative to Nigeria, marking a new chapter in the organization’s partnership with the Federal Government. Dr. Ursu presented his credentials to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, in Abuja on Monday, signaling the start of what both parties described as a strengthened era of collaboration in public health and development.

Welcoming the new representative, Ambassador Tuggar commended WHO’s continued support for Nigeria’s health priorities, noting that the COVID-19 pandemic had exposed critical gaps in the nation’s health systems and underscored the urgency for local manufacturing of medical products.

“Health is not just a sector, it is the foundation for prosperity. A healthy population is empowered to seek opportunities and rise out of poverty,” Ambassador Tuggar said.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s focus on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and health diplomacy aligns with the Ministry’s twin mandate of national development and international engagement, adding that “new realism” now defines global partnerships in a post-pandemic world one anchored on equity and resilience.

In his address, Dr. Ursu conveyed greetings from WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, and the Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Yakub Janabi.

He commended Nigeria’s leadership in global health, citing achievements such as the certification of wild poliovirus eradication and the recent immunization campaign that reached over 106 million children.

Highlighting Nigeria as home to WHO’s largest country office in Africa, Dr. Ursu reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the country’s vision for improved health outcomes. He noted that WHO will work with the Nigerian government to expand fiscal space for health and promote efficient, results-driven investments. He added that the organization would intensify efforts to ensure quality and affordable primary healthcare across all states and local government areas, while strengthening the country’s resilience to epidemics, climate shocks, and humanitarian crises.

Dr. Ursu also emphasized the importance of harnessing data and digital transformation to enable evidence-based health decisions, alongside advancing local manufacturing and innovation to position Nigeria as a regional hub for vaccine and medical technology production. He further highlighted the need to deepen health diplomacy and multisectoral engagement to amplify Nigeria’s role in global health platforms and regional partnerships.

“Nigeria’s strength lies in its people, innovation, and resolve to reform,” Dr. Ursu noted. “WHO will ensure that our partnership translates into measurable improvements in people’s lives.

Dr. Ursu brings over two decades of distinguished experience with WHO, spanning Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Prior to his current appointment, he served as Director of the Department of Delivery for Impact at WHO Headquarters in Geneva, where he led key initiatives to strengthen global health systems.

His past roles include serving as WHO Representative in Tajikistan (2010–2015) and in Türkiye (2015–2020), where he received the WHO Director-General’s Award for leadership during the Syrian refugee crisis. He also served as Acting WHO Representative in Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, and as Head of the WHO Country Office in Moldova.

A physician by training, Dr. Ursu holds a Master of Science and Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, a Master’s in Health Services Management, and a Diploma in High Impact Leadership from the University of Cambridge.

Dr. Ursu’s appointment comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to strengthen primary healthcare, combat infectious and noncommunicable diseases, and boost health emergency preparedness.

“I am honoured to serve as WHO Representative to Nigeria and look forward to working closely with national authorities, development partners, and communities to advance health for all,” Dr. Ursu stated.

The World Health Organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria in achieving Universal Health Coverage and the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as both parties chart a path toward a healthier and more equitable future.

Stakeholders Condemn Gymnastics Federation President’s Blackmail Tactics, Commend NSC DG for Upholding Integrity

Stakeholders in the Nigerian gymnastics community have condemned the recent media publication credited to Kelvin Erhunmwunse, President of the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN), describing his comments against the Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, as a deliberate act of blackmail aimed at diverting attention from his own illegitimate election and leadership failures.

According to credible sources within the sport, Mr. Kelvin’s recent outburst is a reactionary attempt to discredit the Sports Commission after its refusal to endorse his controversial third-term election, which has been widely condemned by stakeholders as a sham, riddled with malpractice, exclusion, and gender bias.

The flawed election, conducted under questionable circumstances, disenfranchised key constituencies including the National Association of Women in Sports (NAWIS), the Nigeria Association for Physical and Health Education, Recreation, Sports and Dance (NAPHER-SD), and the Paramilitary constituency, thereby violating the democratic structure of the Federation.

Stakeholders lamented that the GFN President – whose administration has been marked by poor inclusivity, gender discrimination, and stagnation in athlete development, now want to use media blackmail to malign the NSC DG simply because the Commission refused to validate his unlawful process.

One of the Key stakeholders in the Nigeria Gymnastics family and foremost Sports administrator Omowunmi Olalere said, “It is both ironic and hypocritical for a man who conducted a kangaroo election that silenced women and constitutional representatives to accuse the Sports Commission of interference,”.

“This is a calculated blackmail meant to pressure the DG into legitimizing an election that has already lost credibility.”

The stakeholders further commended Hon. Bukola Olopade, describing him as a reform-driven administrator committed to transparency, equity, and global best practices in sports governance.

They stated that the DG’s insistence on credible, inclusive, and accountable elections across all federations reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to restore integrity and professionalism to Nigeria’s sports sector.

The stakeholders however called on all meaning Sports loving Nigerians including the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), and the International Gymnastics Community to stand by the NSC as it works to restore due process and fairness in Nigerian sports.

They insisted that Gymnastics in Nigeria can only thrive under transparent leadership and credible governance not under blackmail and manipulation and the DG’s stand for integrity must be Commended and not attacked.

RMAFC Moves to Redefine Nigeria’s Revenue Sharing System, Strengthen Fiscal Federalism

Maryam Aminu

A new dawn may be on the horizon for Nigeria’s fiscal framework as the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) intensifies efforts to deliver a modern, equitable, and data-driven revenue allocation formula that reflects the nation’s current economic and governance realities.

Speaking during a high-level panel discussion themed “Recalibrating Nigeria’s Revenue Allocation Formula,” held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, the Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, said the review is long overdue, noting that the existing formula approved in 1992 no longer captures the country’s fiscal responsibilities, population dynamics, or developmental needs.

Dr. Shehu emphasised that recent amendments to the RMAFC Act have empowered the Commission to engage directly with private sector entities, including oil companies, to verify and recover revenues due to the Federation.

He stressed that transparency and accountability are critical to achieving sustainable national development.

“Our goal is to design a formula that empowers subnational governments to meet their constitutional obligations effectively while maintaining national cohesion and macroeconomic stability,” he said. “The choices we make here will shape how governments deliver education, healthcare, and infrastructure to our people.”

Also speaking, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, CON, Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs, underscored the importance of political will in driving fiscal reform, saying that “no matter how brilliant the ideas are, progress will remain elusive without political consensus and a shared national vision.”

Representing the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, Dr. Abdulateef Shittu commended the Commission for creating a neutral platform for dialogue between the federal and subnational governments, pledging the Forum’s full support for a “just and workable formula.”

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, CON, described the initiative as a vital step toward national stability, stressing that “equity must begin with revenue mobilisation, not merely allocation.”

Similarly, Hajiya Hadiza Bala Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, urged for a “courageous and conclusive review” that aligns fiscal reforms with Nigeria’s development priorities.

The panel session, moderated by veteran broadcaster Eugenia Abu, featured contributions from renowned experts, including Prof. Auwalu Yadudu, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, Prof. Nazifi Darma, and Prof. Muhammad Muttaka Usman. The discussion examined constitutional, legal, and economic dimensions of revenue allocation, with panelists advocating for a formula that encourages fiscal discipline, innovation, and accountability at the subnational level.

In his closing remarks, Alhaji Kabir Mashi, OON, Chairman of the Revenue Allocation Formula Committee, expressed gratitude to participants and assured that all recommendations will be integrated into a fair, balanced, and sustainable revenue-sharing model for Nigeria.

WHO Calls for Greater Investment in Adolescent Health as Nigeria Marks International Adolescent Health Week

Emmanuel Daudu

With a call for renewed commitment to youth well-being, the World Health Organization (WHO) has urged Nigeria to scale up investment and coordinated action in adolescent health, as the nation joins the global community to commemorate the 2025 International Adolescent Health Week (IAHW).

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the WHO Country Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Pavel Ursu, Dr. Mary Brantuo commended the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Health, and youth-led organizations for their dedication to improving the health and development of young Nigerians.

“Your commitment to improving adolescent health and well-being in Nigeria is truly commendable,” Dr. Brantuo stated, speaking at the event held on the 6th Floor of the Ministerial Conference Room, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja.

Dr. Brantuo highlighted that adolescents aged 10–19 constitute about 30 million of Nigeria’s population, facing multifaceted health challenges including mental health issues, limited physical activity, and inadequate access to tailored healthcare services.

She revealed that mental health disorders affect 10–20% of adolescents globally, with most conditions beginning between ages 11 and 18. However, in Nigeria, low literacy, stigma, and poor service availability exacerbate the problem.

“Depression and psychosis remain among the most common mental health conditions affecting Nigerian youth,” she noted, attributing the rising trend to factors such as substance use, poverty, unemployment, and weakened family support systems.

The WHO representative emphasized the urgent need for integrated, people-centered adolescent health services covering promotive, preventive, curative, and rehabilitative care.

She called for cross-sectoral collaboration involving schools, communities, parents, and policymakers to create safe spaces for young people and promote both physical and mental resilience.

“By promoting resilience, we nurture a generation that is not just surviving, but flourishing,” she said.

Dr. Brantuo reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria under the Health Sector Renewal Investment Programme, and in implementing the WHO Regional Framework for Mental Health, which targets 80% of countries having strong mental health and psychosocial support systems by 2030.

“Together, we can ensure that physical and mental health support is available when it is most needed offering hope and healing to all adolescents and young people,” she concluded.

The International Adolescent Health Week is a global initiative that spotlights the health and development needs of young people, with this year’s commemoration aligning with World Mental Health Day October 10 a reminder of the urgent need to invest in the mental and physical well-being of Nigeria’s next generaton