Lagos Calls for Stronger Support Systems to Improve Mental Health
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting mental health awareness, emotional well-being and supportive communities through sustained people-centred interventions.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Bolaji Cecilia Dada, made the commitment during a Mental Health Awareness Programme themed “More Good Days Together: Restoring Peace, Reclaiming Joy,” held on Tuesday in Ikeja.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, the commissioner stressed that mental health is a vital component of overall well-being and encouraged residents to seek professional support without fear of stigma or discrimination.
According to a statement issued by the ministry on Wednesday, the state government has continued to implement initiatives aimed at improving residents’ emotional well-being through counselling services, psychosocial support provided by the Domestic Violence Unit and economic empowerment programmes that promote financial independence and personal safety.
Dada noted that many emotional and mental health challenges often originate within the home, urging residents to foster healthier relationships in families, workplaces, schools and communities to build more supportive environments.
She said the state government’s interventions align with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the Sanwo-Olu administration, particularly in promoting health, security and social development.
Also speaking, the Director of the Domestic Violence Unit, Mrs Abiola Osifowokan, appreciated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the commissioner, the permanent secretary, facilitators, participants, media representatives and organisers for supporting the initiative.
She urged participants to sustain conversations around mental health by promoting peaceful homes, supporting one another and encouraging people experiencing emotional challenges to seek professional help without fear of stigma.
The programme also featured an interactive presentation by Mrs Damilola Odukoya, who spoke on mental health, trauma, grief, resilience, self-care, stigma and the importance of community support in promoting emotional wellness.
