The Lagos State Government has expressed concern over Nigeria’s shortage of mental health specialists and treatment facilities. In addition, it warned that existing resources are inadequate to meet growing demands.
According to Vanguard, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, raised the concern on Friday. This happened during the fourth Vanguard Mental Health Summit in Lagos.
Abayomi, represented by the Director of Special Projects and Mental Health at the Ministry of Health, emphasised the need for preventive mental healthcare.
He explained that increasing awareness of mental health challenges among young Nigerians had created opportunities for early intervention.
However, the commissioner warned that greater awareness alone would not address the shortage of professional support and treatment facilities.
“We don’t have enough specialists to manage mental illnesses,” he said.
Lagos seeks stronger youth mental health support
Abayomi urged government institutions, schools and families to strengthen mental health education and preventive services.
He expressed concern that excessive exposure to social media could influence how young Nigerians viewed themselves and their circumstances.
The commissioner explained that some young people compared their living conditions with lifestyles portrayed in other countries. However, they did so without considering economic and cultural differences.
He maintained that parents and schools must provide appropriate guidance to help children develop emotional resilience and social awareness.
Abayomi also stressed the importance of distinguishing between mental health and mental illness.
He explained that experiencing poor mental health did not automatically mean a person had a diagnosed mental disorder.
The commissioner called for more accessible support systems, mentorship and age-appropriate mental health information.
He added that the Lagos State Government remained committed to strengthening preventive healthcare and improving public awareness.
The summit, themed “Advancing Youth Mental Health in Nigeria,” brought stakeholders together to discuss access to treatment. It also examined the influence of technology on young people’s wellbeing.
