News Agency of Nigeria
Land matters crucial to Africa, says expert
General News

Land matters crucial to Africa, says expert

Land policies and governance came under focus as an expert in land matters in Africa, Prof. Kimani Njogu, highlighted its importance.

Njogu, spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday at African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa on the sidelines of Media Master Class.

The Master Class is a precursor to the 2023 Conference on Land Policy in Africa (CLPA), starting on Tuesday to end on Friday.

Other speakers at the session included Dr Joan Kagwanja, who also spoke on land issues in Africa, as well as Ms Eileen Wakesho and Mr Tsotetsi Makong.

The conference, organised by African Land Policy Centre (ALPC) has the theme: “Promoting Sustainable Land Governance in Africa for Accelerated Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area”.

Prof. Kimani Njogu

Njogu, a Consultant on Land Matters, said when dealing with issues of land governance, “we are dealing with a question of who gets to make the decisions on who accesses land.

“Who owns land as well as the processes that will be undertaken in making those decisions.

“Now across Africa we have a huge problem of people’s access to land.

“So, for example, we have tensions between herders and farmers, tension between urbanisation, farming and agriculture, tensions between indigenous communities and new communities that get into the land and so on.”

Njogu explained that the situation called for decisions and those decisions were usually political decisions which had economic and social implications.

“Therefore, it is in that context that we say in Africa, we must pay particular attention to land policy as well as land governance because it is also about issues of power.

“Who controls power in terms of decision making.

“For instance, do the youth in Africa have access to land. Can they own land and under what circumstances can they own land?

“If its women, do they own land and how can they access it? How can we industrialise while at the same time not displace indigenous communities.

“How can we accelerate tourism and extract our natural resources without damaging people’s lives?

“So, its really about decision making and that’s an important thing for us to be paying attention to,” he said.

NAN also reports that the conference is aimed at exploring the intersection between land governance policies and trade in Africa within the context of African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The Master Class provided valuable insights into land governance for accelerating the implementation of the AfCFTA, as well as other key topics such as women’s land rights, inclusive trade and food security.

Meanwhile, the conference has established itself as the continent’s premier land forum, facilitating the exchange of research activities, experiences and learnings on emerging land issues.

The 2023 conference also aimed at deepening the capacity for land policy and implementation in Africa by fostering improved access to knowledge, networks and innovation.

Edited by Adeleye Ajayi

 

Lions Clubs International offers free diabetes screening awareness
General News

Lions Clubs International offers free diabetes screening awareness

Members of Lions Clubs International at the screening and diabetes awareness exercise in Lagos

By Yusuf Yunus

A non-governmental organisation, Lions Clubs International, District 404B4 Nigeria, has offered free screening and diabetes awareness exercise to Lagos residents at Isolo General Hospital.

Mr Samson Abodunrin, District Governor for 404B4 Nigeria, Lions Clubs International District Governor for 404B4 Nigeria disclosed this on Sunday in Lagos.

Abodunrin said the event was part of the programme scheduled for the three-day visit of the International President, Dr Patti Hill.

He hinted that November is a month for Diabetes Awareness, for all Lions to rise up to the challenges and threats of Diabetes.

 

Nurses attending to residents at the free screening and diabetes awareness exercise

 

Abodunrin, who was represented Mr Oyegunle Oladipo, during the campaign, encouraged everyone to take care of their health, and go for regular medical check-up.

Also, the Chairperson for the Diabetes Awareness Campaign, Mrs Rasheedat Usman, said over 150 people who were in attendance got screened at Isolo General Hospital.

“Lions members who turned up were also screened after an awareness walk from Apata Memorial High school, Ire-Akari to Isolo General Hospital.

“Three people were reported to have been detected with high level diabetes, and were immediately moved to Emergency for further consultation,” she said.

The chairperson commended all the clubs and individuals who keyed into the programme for their positive contributions.

Mrs Delphine Robin, District 404B4 Marketing & Communication Chairperson, said that Lions Clubs International District 404B4 Nigeria was in partnership with the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO).

Robin said that the partnership would involve a three days skills acquisition programme which include technologies used in the production of liquid soap, fruit juice and smoked fish, which is one of the District Governor’s core project for 2023-2024 Lions Service Year.

According to her, all participants will be given a starter pack as a means of empowerment from the district.

Robin said that the skills acquisition is scheduled to hold from Nov. 28 to Nov. 30. (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Improved leadership qualities critical to reposition Nigeria- Association
General News

Improved leadership qualities critical to reposition Nigeria- Association

 

L-R: Mrs Adanma Odefa-Wachuku, Alumni of HHHFAA; Ms Amanda Brown, Acting Public Affairs Officer, U.S Consulate Lagos; Mrs Abosede Oyeleye, President, HHHFAA Nigeria; and Mr Clemson Ayegbusi, Established Opinion Leaders Specialist, U.S. Consulate Lagos, at the 45th Anniversary news conference of HHHFAA Nigeria, in Lagos.

 

By Oluwafunke Ishola

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Alumni Association (HHHFAA), Nigeria, says enhancing leadership quality of present and future leaders will reposition Nigeria as a global attraction.

 

Mrs Abosede Oyeleye, President, HHHFAA Nigeria, said this during a news conference ahead of the 45th Anniversary of the fellowship on Friday in Lagos.

 

Oyeleye noted that the country has brilliant minds, energy, hard-working citizens and natural resources endowment to unlock its growth potential.

 

According to her, the time for transformational leaders in Nigeria is now.

 

In celebrating the anniversary, Oyeleye said that alumni of the fellowship would converge to advance solutions to shared challenges and celebrate impact of the programme to global society.

 

She noted that a national seminar on leadership would hold on Dec. 8 in Lagos, with immediate relatives of Hubert Humphrey joining virtually from Washington and Minnesota.

 

Other speakers include U.S Consul General Will Stevens; former Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro; Eghobamien-Msheila, Vice-Chairperson, United Nations Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (UN-CEDAW), among others.

 

Also, Ms Amanda Brown, Acting Public Affairs Officer, U.S Consulate Lagos, acknowledged the significance of cultural exchange programmes to both countries.

 

Brown said that the spirit of Hubert Humphrey lives on through the work of the alumni who impact lives and communities through their passionate commitment to public service.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Programme was sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

 

The fellowship is a specialised, non-degree exchange programme for accomplished mid-career professionals.

 

It takes beneficiaries from designated countries, including Nigeria to the United States for one-year long graduate level study that focuses on leadership development and professional collaboration with U.S. counterparts at select U.S. universities.

 

Nearly 5,000 men and women from 157 countries have been honoured as Humphrey Fellows since the Programme was established in 1978.

 

Some Nigerian Alumni of the fellowship include former Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode; former Chief Judge of Lagos, Justice Opeyemi Oke; Dr Reuben Abati, Senior Special Adviser to President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, among others. (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Lions Club International President inaugurates modern facilities in Nigeria
General News

Lions Club International President inaugurates modern facilities in Nigeria

Dr Patti Hill, Worldwide President of Lions Club International visit to Nigeria

 

By Yusuf Yunus

A non-governmental organisation, the Lions Club International, has commissioned some health facilities at Federal Medical Center, Yaba, Lagos.

The club also donated some equipment to the hospital for the use of community members and improvement of the health status of the people.

Dr Patti Hill, the President of Lions Club International, in an interview at the ceremony on Wednesday in Lagos applauded the club for impacting massively on community development.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project, alongside others at different locations in Lagos was commissioned by Hill.

The Lions Club Worldwide President and her spouse Greg Holmes, were welcomed with cultural display of the Nigerian culture.

Showing appreciation, she commended the Lagos State government for the well-kept venue of the event.

She expressed optimism that the projects, including the childhood cancer caregivers center would provide relief for families for their children’s treatment for childhood cancer.

“Well, when I visit Lions here in Nigeria, I expect them to show me their projects for vision for the environment, diabetes awareness, and of course, we do a lot of work around the on-going issue of food insecurity and hunger.

“But what’s really exciting here in Nigeria is that the Lions Clubs and our youth movement, the Leo Clubs, are growing and expanding.

“We are so excited that your people are keen to be volunteers within the Lions movement,” she said.

The visitor is expected to pay a courtesy call on the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu to acquaint him about the activities of the Club and solicit for cooperation.

Mr Samson Abodunrin, the District Governor of 404B4 Nigeria, revealed the level of outreach, and humanitarian service that had been executed by the organisation.

“Currently, not far away from Ikeja, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, we have a Diagnostic Center that we built, equipped with modern equipment to screen, and test people with diabetes.

“We also have the Eye Center that we built, which she visited.

“By the special grace of God, and on Monday, she (Dr Hill) was able to commission an ultra-modern Caregivers home that we built in Federal Medical Center.

“This Caregivers Home facility was built for people who have cancer, especially children with cancer.

According to him, the organisation has donated N2.5 million to the Paediatric Cancer Department at Ebute-metta Federal Medical Centre, and has buil facility with more than 40 rooms, ensuite, with modern beds and facilities to help treat children with cancer.

“We are putting smiles on the faces of the less privileged, and the blind as well, which is why we are popularly referred to as knights of the Blind.

“We have them in mind, and on our daily activities. We remember the children that are going to school without shoes, without books, without desks, and without uniforms. This is what we are doing.

“We have decided, and we have started the program. We are feeding 9,000 people in public schools.

“Children who could not eat from home, we are providing food for them in the 10 regions in my district. And we are also providing 6,000 households with food items.

“No doubt, we are close to Christmas. Some have nothing to eat. We have started that program and we are distributing food items. Rice, spaghetti, macaroni, semovita etc… This is what we are reaching out to the less privileged with.” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Lagos, EnterpriseNGR woo investors in London
General News , Metro

Lagos, EnterpriseNGR woo investors in London

L-R: Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede CON, Chairman EnterpriseNGR; Micheal Mainelli, Lord Mayor of London; and Obi Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer, EnterpriseNGR during a bilateral “InvestLagos” meeting in London, United Kingdom

 

By Oluwafunke Ishola

 

A policy and advocacy group, EnterpriseNGR, says Lagos State participation at the Lord Mayor’s Show will set the stage for future collaborations and investments that will drive sustainable economic development in Lagos and Nigeria.

 

Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of EnterpriseNGR, said this on Wednesday at the “InvestLagos” Reception, held after the Lord Mayor’s Show in Lagos.

 

Aig-Imoukhuede noted that the successful participation at the show marks a historic chapter in Lagos’ journey towards becoming a global financial hub.

 

He disclosed that Lagos and EnterpriseNGR made history on Nov. 11, as the first African participants in the prestigious Lord Mayor’s Show, with a spectacular procession that celebrated the rich cultural heritage and economic prowess of Lagos State and Nigeria.

 

According to him, the success of this historic participation set the stage for a series of engagements culminating in the “InvestLagos” reception.

 

“In partnership with EnterpriseNGR, the state recently inaugurated the Lagos International Financial Centre (LIFC) Council to bolster Lagos’ standing as a global financial centre.

 

“The LIFC Council,  thereafter,  took its “InvestLagos” strategy, and “Open for Business” message to the Lord Mayor’s Show, inviting the world to witness the vast opportunities Lagos State has to offer foreign investors.

 

“The pioneering journey, undertaken with a mission to position Lagos as Africa’s premier financial centre, has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the global stage.

 

“The float design showcased the progress and dynamism of Lagos State, a thriving financial centre with over 25 million residents.

 

“Featuring familiar icons integral to Lagosians’ daily lives, the design incorporated symbols of innovation and growth, including the recently launched Lagos Blue Line train.

 

“Naira design patterns, elements of the Nigerian coat of arms, iconic Danfo and Keke Marwa vehicles, and the Eyo Masquerade collectively depict the city’s cultural richness and significant economic prowess,” he said.

 

Aig-Imoukhuede noted that the float was more than a celebration of Lagos’ resilience but a proclamation of its remarkable journey and achievements on the global stage.

 

He stressed that the float also told the story of the fruitful and important partnership between EnterpriseNGR and Lagos State, emphasising the valuable outcomes that come from collaborations between public and private sector.

 

Also, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, said the participation was strategic and a manifestation of the state’s commitment to a bold vision, positioning Lagos as Africa’s beacon of financial innovation.

 

“The newly inaugurated LIFC Council played a pivotal role in showcasing the investment potential of Lagos on a global platform.

 

“As our procession made its way through the streets of London, we let it be known that Lagos State was not just participating in a historic parade; we were striding into the global spotlight, inviting the world to witness our dynamism.

 

Also, echoing the message that our great state is open for business, with a myriad of investment opportunities available to all,” Sanwo-Olu said.

 

Similarly, Ms Obi Ibekwe, CEO of EnterpriseNGR, said, “When we embarked on this historic project to showcase Lagos on the global stage, we recognise the profound significance of attracting the investments required to drive sustainable development and growth for the state.

 

“I am honoured to be at the forefront of the great strides being taken to foster the symbiotic relationship between investors, the state, and the wider communities required to deliver that growth.” (NAN)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

 

 

 

How Nigeria can reduce carbon emissions – SNEPCo MD  
Business , General News

How Nigeria can reduce carbon emissions – SNEPCo MD  

By Yusuf Yunus

Mrs Elohor Aiboni, the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Ltd. (SNEPCo), says  Nigeria needs to diversify its renewable energy portfoli to reduce carbon emissions from fossil fuel production.
Aiboni said this the 41st Annual International Conference and Exhibition of the National Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) on. Wednesday in Lagos.
According to her,  this shift towards renewables is crucial while also meeting the energy demands of a growing population.
Aiboni suggested that one way to achieve this is through encouraging Public-Private Partnerships in renewable energy.
The managing director said that this would address the challenges of high investment costs and limited access to financing.
She stressed that reducing carbon emissions from fossil fuels is a national endeavor that requires the collaboration and cooperation of individuals and corporate bodies.
As an example of private sector intervention in renewable energy, Aiboni mentioned All On, an impact investing company established by Shell in Nigeria in 2017.
According to her, All On has successfully provided over 75,000 energy connections in Nigeria through its investee companies, focusing on solar energy systems, solar assembly, cold storage, and mini-grids.
Aiboni also advocated for investments in lower-carbon energy sources, particularly the expansion of the natural gas portfolio and gas infrastructure projects including pipelines, processing facilities, and distribution networks.
These investments, she noted,  would enhance domestic gas supply, promote intra-regional trade and global exports, while also narrowing the energy access gap and mitigating the risk of stranded gas resources.
Regarding the role of technology in improving energy efficiency, Aiboni highlighted advancements such as artificial intelligence, robotics, proactive surveillance, and predictive analytics.
Aiboni noted that hese innovations had contributed to increased equipment runtime and reduced intermittent flaring.
 “Shell has successfully implemented these technologies in their operations, achieving a significant reduction in onshore flaring and nearly eliminating it in deepwater operations, surpassing a 50 per cent flare reduction overall, “she said.
Aiboni commended the National Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) for organising the five-day conference and expressed her hope that the discussions held during the event would contribute to delivering a sustainable energy future for Nigeria in the long run.

(NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Ember months: FRSC warns motorists against speeding, intoxicating substances
General News

Ember months: FRSC warns motorists against speeding, intoxicating substances

By Ige Adekunle
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ogun Command, has warned motorists against excessive speeding and dangerous overtaking to minimise road accidents during the ember months.
Mr Anthony Uga, the Ogun Sector Commander of FRSC, gave the warning during the flag-off campaign organised by the Idiroko Unit Command on Wednesday in Idiroko.
Uga emphasised the importance of responsible driving and avoidance of overloading during this period.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of 2023 ember months is: “Speed Thrills but Kills, Drive Responsibly and Avoid Overloading”.
According to him, this serves as a reminder to all motorists that speeding and reckless overtaking have been major contributors to road crashes in the state.
Uga who stressed the detrimental effects of speeding, urged motorists to drive responsibly, considering the increased vehicular movement during the ember months.
The FRSC boss noted that over speeding and dangerous overtaking had been contributed to most of the road crashes in the state.
“We implored motorists against speeding because speed kills.
“In addition, they should drive responsively and refrain from dangerous driving as ember months is always characterised with increase vehicular movement to reduce tragedy during this period.
He also highlighted the dangers of intoxicating substances such as drugs and alcohol, which impair judgment and increase the risk of accidents.
Uga cautioned against night traveling due to poor visibility, as a significant number of accidents occur during this time.
To further promote road safety, Uga appealed to the unions of NURTW and RTEAN to actively engage their drivers in promoting safety measures and ensuring proper maintenance of their vehicles.
According to him, this is especially important as these drivers transport various categories of people on the highways.
Mr Charles Daramola, the Idiroko Unit Commander of FRSC, also emphasised the need for motorists to change their negative attitudes to reduce accidents during the ember months.
He highlighted the 2023 theme of the ember months campaign as a tool for public enlightenment, aiming to positively influence road users’ behaviour and create a safer motoring environment.
Daramola acknowledged the regular occurrence of road traffic crashes and their impact on lives, valuable properties, and the Nigerian economy.
He dispelled the belief that the ember months are inherently evil and characterised by road crashes, noting that most incidents occur due to non-compliance with basic traffic rules and regulations by road users.
“There is the need to raise the consciousness of the motorists about the risks, the magnitude of loses, and negative impacts of road crashes due to over speeding and over loading on lives and properties of road users,which in turn impedes the growth of the nation.”he said.
The unit commander emphasised the need for motorists to obey traffic rules and regulations, especially during the ember months to reduce the number of deaths recorded from road crashes.
He added that these accident victims are the greatest assets of any nation and toward achieving economic growth.(NAN)
Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

 

Kale demise: Rep calls for gender equality in Army 
Gender , General News

Kale demise: Rep calls for gender equality in Army 

A member of House of Representatives, Mr Kayode Akiolu, has called on the Nigerian Army to deepen gender equality in the force.

Akiolu, who represents Lagos Island Constituency II at the lower house, made the call in a statement by his media aide, Bolaji Adamoh-Faniyan, on Tuesday in Lagos, while mourning the passing of Maj.-Gen. Aderonke Kale.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Kale was the Army’s first female officer to attain the rank of Major General.

Kale, born on July 31, 1939, died in London on Wednesday, Nov. 8. She was also a psychiatrist who studied Medicine at the University of Ibadan.

Akiolu, who is the Chairman House Committee on Anti-corruption Agencies, expressed sadness at the death of the army general.

“We encourage the Nigerian Army and the government to honour her memory by continuing to promote gender equality and creating more opportunities for women to excel in the military.

“Let us all work towards a society where women’s contributions are valued, recognised, and celebrated,” Akiolu said.

He noted that Kale’s contributions to the Nigerian Army and her pioneering role as a female officer had left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.

“She broke barriers and shattered glass ceilings, paving the way for other women to pursue careers in the military,” Akiolu said.

The Rep member further praised Kale’s unwavering dedication, exemplary leadership, and remarkable achievements, adding that they were an inspiration to many young Nigerians.

“She was a role model, a trailblazer, and a true patriot. The loss of such an extraordinary individual is deeply felt within the Nigerian Army community and beyond.

“Her legacy will forever be cherished, and her humanitarian efforts will always be remembered,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo/Olawunmi Ashafa

Educationist urges Nigerians to celebrate academic excellence
Education , General News

Educationist urges Nigerians to celebrate academic excellence

A cross-section of students of Adedokun International Schools who won laurels prices from various external competitions

 

By Ige Adekunle

Dr Mike Fatukasi, Principal, Adedokun International Schools, has emphasised the importance of celebrating academic excellence in Nigeria as a means to achieve national development.

Fatukasi gave the advice during the celebration of Icons and award winning students of the school on Monday in Ijoko, Ogun.

He also emphasised the need to acknowledge and appreciate the achievements of students who had consistently excelled in external competitions.

“We are gathered here today to celebrate success of our children who have been representing us and winning laurels in various external competitions.

“Some of the external competitions are Science Teachers Association of Nigeria competition (STAN), Mathematics Association of Nigeria (MAN), Cowbelldia, Our Generation Foundation Mathematics competition (OGF).

“Others are Interswitch Mathematics Competition, Adekunle Science Competition, Prof. Wole Soyinka Competition, Ogun State and Government Essay Competition among others,” he said.

The educationist highlighted the vital role that parents play in the growth and development of the school.

Fatukasi expressed gratitude for their continuous support and for entrusting their children, friends, and family members to the school over the years.

He said that academic excellence should be granted to students whose performances demonstrate remarkable consistency and outstanding achievements.

According to him, this holds great value in shaping the state and society at large.

“The nation needs to encourage and celebrate academic excellence, which is of greater value to birth the state and the society in general.

“It is only in Nigeria that we don’t appreciate academic excellence,” he said.

The principal also said that education remained fundamental to achieving sustainable national development and called for increased investment in the sector.

He condemned the tendency to prioritise and celebrate entertainment competitions, while overlooking academic excellence, describing such step as ” a great significance for the nation’s progress”.

Fatukasi noted that celebrating academic achievements would foster healthy competition among students and enhance their intellectual capacity, ultimately contributing to national development.

In her remark, Alhaja Romoke Adedokun, the school’s proprietress, thanked the students for making the school proud by winning laurels prices from various external competitions.

Adedokun also commended the parents for their contributions to the school’s development.
She applauded the teachers for their dedication, commitment, and cooperation in providing quality education and training to the students.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 40 students and 16 parents were recognised and celebrated by the management of Adedokun International Schools.

The students were given special identify cards, certificates, customised T-shirts and caps as well as plaques.

The students also displayed cultural dances in Yoruba, Ibo and Hausa, to entertain the guests at the event. (NAN)

Edited by Chidinma Agu/Olawunmi Ashafa

AHI, partners seek improved adolescent mental health
Health

AHI, partners seek improved adolescent mental health

 

Cross section of teenagers at the Annual Teenage Festival of Life organised by Action Health Incorporated (AHI) in Lagos.

 

By Oluwafunke Ishola

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Action Health Incorporated (AHI), has stressed the need to break the silence and converse on the impact of mental health conditions, especially among young people.

Mrs Adenike Essiet, Executive Director, AHI, said this during the 28th Annual Teenage Festival of Life (TFL) on Saturday in Lagos.

TFL is a forum that enables young people and relevant stakeholders to identify the plights facing youths through artistic presentations with a view to enlisting them as critical stakeholders.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that TFL, organised by AHI, seeks to promote youth’s health and development toward their successful transition to adulthood.

The theme for the festival: “Mental Health: Adolescent and Young People Taking Action”.

Esiet noted that breaking the silence on mental health conditions would promote understanding, encourage help-seeking behaviour, and create a more supportive and informed society.

She said mental health remains a pressing issue in the country, with a significant portion of the population grappling with various mental health challenges.

Esiet said beyond the impact on health and well-being, mental health challenges had been associated with severe economic losses due to the high cost of treatment and impaired ability to work, especially among young people.

“For many young people coping with the transition from childhood to adolescence and adulthood carries much stressor that they are struggling to deal with and no one is talking about it.

“All the stigmatisation and discrimination pushes them further into their shell and they are not looking for help. So, it’s not much of a surprise that we’ve been hearing reports of young people commiting suicide, depressed, running away from home.

“This year, we decided to draw attention to it, have young people speak up for themselves, talk about their experiences, learn where to find help and help society destigmatise mental health issues.

Esiet recalled that the Mental Health Bill was passed into law in January 2023.

“The Act is a significant step forward for mental health in Nigeria as it seeks to promote and protect the lives of people suffering from mental illnesses and eradicate every form of stigmatisation and discrimination among them,” she said.

Also, Dr Abosede Akinpade, a clinical psychologist, noted that failing to address adolescent mental health conditions extend to adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health and limiting opportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults.

Akinpade said exposure to adversity, pressure to conform with peers and exploration of identity, internet addiction were some factors that contribute to stress during adolescence.

She noted that a child needs love, affection, security and attention, stressing that a child that lacks these would have low self-esteem and seek validation from wrong people.

The psychologist disclosed that bipolar disorder was on the increase among adolescents and youths, stressing that such adolescents and their families should seek professional support to manage the condition.

Similarly, Dr Esther Somefun, Gender and Reproductive Health Analyst, UNFPA, said the agency was involved in strategies, programmes and tools to assist governments in responding to the health needs of adolescents.

Somefun noted that there was no health without mental health, saying it was central to human dignity, thus called for action to end the stigma surrounding mental health.

She also appealed to the governments and stakeholders to integrate mental health and psychosocial support across their efforts to enhance well-being and achieve sustainable development.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), one in seven (14 per cent) 10-19 year-old experience mental health conditions, globally.

WHO noted that in Nigeria, one in six young people, aged 15 to 24 are at risk of a mental issue with the most common issues being mood disorders (anxiety and depression), substance use disorder and suicide. (NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

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