Dr. Tomi Coker, Ogun State’s Commissioner for Health, has expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of mental health disorders, with 10,000 patient visits recorded in the first half of 2025, including 1,000 new cases.
Represented by Dr. Kayode Oladeinde, the Permanent Secretary, she spoke at an event marking the 2025 World Mental Health Day, themed “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.” Coker highlighted that over 90% of Nigerians with mental health issues lack access to adequate care due to limited services, stigma, and costs.
She emphasized that mental health is a fundamental human right and noted the growing burden in Ogun State. Data from mental health facilities in Abeokuta, Ijebu Ode, Ilaro, and Ota revealed prevalent conditions such as psychosis, neurosis, epilepsy, depr+ssion, and substance use disorders. To address this, the state has formed a 26-member Mental Health Action Committee, chaired by Dr. Abayomi Olajide, a consultant psychiatrist at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta.
Coker called for collective action, urging families to foster open discussions on mental health, employers to create supportive work environments, and religious and community leaders to promote compassion and care access. She also encouraged the media to report responsibly to reduce stigma and inspire hope. The commissioner reassured residents that the government is committed to supporting those struggling with mental health challenges.
Additionally, Coker announced that community mental health hospitals have been established in Abeokuta, Ilaro, Ijebu-Ode, and Ota to improve access to care across the state.
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