By Iradat Abdullateef
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called for urgent action to integrate mental health into Africa’s emergency preparedness and crisis response systems.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, raised the alarm in a statement marking this year’s World Mental Health Day (WMHD), themed “Access to Service: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”
Janabi described mental health integration across African countries as “inadequate,” stressing the need for deliberate investment in psychosocial support before, during, and after crises.
“This year’s theme is a reminder of our collective responsibility to safeguard mental health before, during, and after crises,” he said.
He urged African governments to strengthen policies and systems that make mental healthcare accessible to vulnerable populations, especially those affected by conflict, disaster, or displacement.
In Nigeria, the National Mental Health Programme Coordinator at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunde Ojo, disclosed that the government had set up a National Task Force on the decriminalisation of attempted suicide.
“We are now working closely with the Office of the Attorney-General to finalise a draft amendment bill. We expect tangible progress very soon,” Ojo said.
He added that 27 of Nigeria’s 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, have now established mental health units within their public health departments, “a big step towards strengthening coordination across the country.”
World Mental Health Day is observed globally on October 10 to raise awareness about mental health challenges and promote efforts that make care accessible to all.
