The Lagos State Government has urged residents to prioritise their mental health and seek professional support when needed, reaffirming its commitment to expanding awareness, reducing stigma and strengthening access to psychosocial support services across the state.
The call was made during a Mental Health Awareness Programme organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), themed “More Good Days Together: Restoring Peace, Reclaiming Joy,” held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa, Ikeja.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Rianat Onigbanjo, described mental health as an essential component of overall well-being, stressing that emotional resilience is fundamental to healthy families and productive communities.
She said the programme was designed to provide a safe platform for open conversations, practical learning and greater awareness of mental health issues while encouraging people to seek help without fear of discrimination.
“Mental health is a vital component of our overall well-being. True strength lies not only in physical health but also in our ability to live with hope, resilience and emotional balance despite life’s challenges,” she said.
Dada noted that the Sanwo-Olu administration, through its THEMES+ Development Agenda, remains committed to implementing people-centred initiatives that strengthen families, improve healthcare delivery, empower women and support vulnerable residents across the state.
“This programme provides a safe space for honest conversations, practical learning and increased awareness. We want to build a culture where people feel comfortable seeking support whenever they need it, without fear or shame,” she added.
The commissioner highlighted several interventions being implemented by the ministry, including counselling and psychosocial support services through its Domestic Violence Unit, as well as skills acquisition and economic empowerment programmes aimed at improving emotional and psychological well-being through financial independence and personal safety.
She also referenced the ministry’s recent parenting initiative, “Transforming Families Through Positive and Intentional Parenting,” noting that many emotional and mental health challenges often originate within the family.
“We encourage participants to apply the knowledge gained here in their homes, workplaces, schools, places of worship and communities. Together, we can become advocates for emotional well-being and healthier relationships,” Dada said.
A major highlight of the programme was an interactive presentation by mental health facilitator, Mrs. Damilola Odukoya, who spoke on understanding mental health in everyday life, trauma, grief and emotional recovery, self-care, resilience, overcoming stigma and the importance of strong community support systems.
Participants actively engaged in the session by sharing personal experiences, asking questions and discussing practical ways to improve emotional well-being in their daily lives.
In her closing remarks, the Director of the Domestic Violence Unit, Mrs. Abiola Osifowokan, thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for supporting programmes that promote the well-being of residents and strengthen family values across the state.
She also commended the Commissioner, the Permanent Secretary, the facilitator, ministry officials, participants and members of the media for contributing to the programme’s success.
“Let us sustain the conversations we have started today by building peaceful homes, supporting one another and encouraging anyone experiencing emotional challenges to seek professional help without fear of stigma,” Osifowokan said.
The Mental Health Awareness Programme forms part of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation’s ongoing efforts to promote emotional wellness, strengthen family values and build resilient communities where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.
