Abuja: The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting mental health awareness, emotional well-being, and supportive communities through sustained people-centred interventions. The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Bolaji Cecilia Dada, emphasized the importance of mental health as essential to overall well-being and encouraged residents to seek support without fear or stigma. Speaking at a Mental Health Awareness Programme themed ‘More Good Days Together: Restoring Peace, Reclaiming Joy,’ Dada, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts in this domain.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, a statement from the ministry indicated that the event took place on Tuesday in Ikeja. The programme aimed to create a safe space for honest conversations, practical learning, and awareness to foster emotional resilience and encourage help-seeking among residents. Dada reiterated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment, through the THEMES plus Agenda, to strengthening families, expanding healthcare access, empowering women, and supporting vulnerable residents.
The THEMES Agenda, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, stands for Traffic Management and Transportation, Health and Environment, Education and Technology, Making Lagos a 21st-century Economy, Entertainment and Tourism, Security and Governance. The commissioner highlighted services like counselling, psychosocial support through the Domestic Violence Unit, and economic empowerment programmes aimed at improving emotional well-being, financial independence, and personal safety.
Mrs Abiola Osifowokan, Director of the Domestic Violence Unit, expressed gratitude to Gov. Sanwo-Olu, the commissioner, permanent secretary, facilitators, participants, media, and organisers for supporting the initiative. She encouraged participants to continue discussions on mental health by fostering peaceful homes, supporting one another, and seeking professional help for emotional challenges without stigma.
The programme also featured an interactive presentation by Mrs Damilola Odukoya covering topics such as mental health, trauma, grief, resilience, self-care, stigma, and community support. Participants shared experiences, posed questions, and expressed renewed commitment to prioritising emotional well-being in their families, workplaces, and communities.
The ministry noted that this programme is part of ongoing efforts to promote emotional wellness, strengthen family values, and build resilient communities across Lagos State.