Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has alleged that the current hardship being experienced in the country is mentally affecting Nigerians.
Obi, also a former Governor of Anambra State, lamented what he described as troubling and deepening mental health crises in the country, saying that poverty and unemployment have pushed many Nigerians into criminality.
He stated this in a tweet on his X handle while commemorating Mental Health Day, which is celebrated every October 10.
He said, “As the world celebrates Mental Health Day this weekend, it is troubling to note that a nation like Nigeria has deepening mental health crises which recent report from World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that about 40 million people are living with mental health conditions, and grossly fewer doctors to attend to mental health, as fewer than 300 psychiatrists are available in the country.
“This clearly shows Nigeria’s growing disinterest and neglect of the health sector. Mental health is more important than physical health. Nigerians are now feeling so overwhelmed by hardship that they are mentally affected. Poverty, unemployment, and the daily battle to survive have pushed many of our people, especially the youth, into hopelessness, criminality and an increasing rate of suicide.”
He called on government to address poverty, unemployment and hunger, describing them as contributing factors to mental health problem.
“The government must treat this as a public health emergency. Nigeria needs more mental health professionals and a massive investment in mental health infrastructure with well-equipped psychiatric hospitals in all geopolitical zones.
“We must also address the issues of poverty, unemployment and hunger that are contributing to this mental problem and build a nation that heals, uplifts, and gives every citizen a reason to live.
“Nigeria’s progress will never be measured by the wealth of its leaders but by human capital, which is the well-being of its people.” he added
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