The federal government has restated commitment to address mental health challenges in the country.

Minister of state for education, Tanko Sununu, stated this during the symposium to commemorate the 2024 World

Mental Health Day, on Friday in Abuja.

The symposium themed: “Prioritising Mental Health in the Workplace and Managing Stress,” was organised by the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly.

Represented by Zubairu Turaki, director, special duties in the ministry, Mr Sununu said mental health was a collective concern that affects communities and the nation at large.

“The youths are the future leaders of Nigeria; their wellbeing is critical to the success of our society, yet they are facing challenges of mental health, such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse and suicidal thought.

“These issues have been exacerbated by various factors including harsh economy, social pressures, academic stress and the impact of digital technology.

“As a government, we are committed to ensuring that mental health becomes a priority within our education system,” he said.

To address the challenges, Mr Sununu said the government was focusing on three key areas including awareness, access to mental health services and reducing the stigma associated with people with mental health.

He said the government was also exploring technologies to provide virtual platforms, especially in underserved areas.

“Mental Health issues are part of human experience. By openly discussing these issues and normalising the conversation, we can create an environment where youths will feel empowered to seek help,” he said.

Also speaking, Tunji Asaolu, chairman, Governing Board of the AU Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, described mental health as a component that impacts on our daily lives, affecting productivity and interpersonal relationships.

“So, by addressing mental health challenges in the workplace and promoting stress management strategies, we contribute towards building resilience and productive society as projected by the Agenda 2063,” said Mr Asaolu.

The Emir of Jiwa, Idris Musa, said Nigerians had been exposed to harsh economic realities and high cost of living that contributed to mental health challenges.

He urged the government and the stakeholders to go back to the drawing board to address the economic woes facing the people.

Mr Musa added that by doing so, it would address the mental health challenges facing the citizens.

The Speaker of the Assembly, Emmanuel Egejurum, said stakeholders could collectively challenge the status quo, reduce stigma and create changes to positively impact the mental health of individuals across Africa.

Similarly, Dr Sa’adatu Adamu, chairperson, social affairs and health committee of the AU Agenda 2063, highlighted that mental health was critical to the stability of any society.

“I want the government to see that mental health is key. It is part of our lives. It is how we think, feel and act.

“I would want all of you to join the Agenda 2063 blueprint, and see that this is a vision that starts with Nigeria and would be

replicated in the whole of Africa,” she said.

Dr Hasiya Adamu-Biu, a professional mental health and addiction therapist, called for the provision of counselling services in workplaces to help both employers and employees.

She also advocated inclusion of mental health in the national health insurance scheme, to enhance access to the scheme.

(NAN)