By Tricia Ikem
The Lagos State Ministry of Health has reiterated the need for a stronger connection between healthcare, education, and emotional well-being as part of efforts to tackle growing mental health challenges and youth drug abuse in the state.
Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stated this during the maiden edition of the Integrated Wellness and Education Conference held in Lagos.
The conference, which took place at Ikeja GRA, brought together health professionals, educators, students, and policy advocates to discuss the future of healthcare delivery, mental wellness, and youth development in Nigeria.
According to Abayomi, healthcare, education, and mental well-being are interconnected areas that must be addressed collectively in order to build a healthier society.
The commissioner, who was represented by Atewologun Titofunmi, a Mental Health Officer and Technical Support Adviser, explained that the state government is actively tackling mental health issues through its Mental Health Programme Lagos, popularly known as the MiND initiative.
He noted that mental health concerns have long been neglected due to social stigma and excessive focus on physical health, stressing that authorities are now working to change public perception and encourage open conversations around emotional well-being.
“Everything works hand in hand. We need to address mental health issues because historically, attention has focused mainly on physical health due to the stigma surrounding mental illness,” he said.
Abayomi disclosed that the state currently operates several wellness initiatives aimed at providing psychosocial support for public servants dealing with workplace stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
He further explained that the Ministry of Health runs dedicated 24-hour counseling support services free of charge for residents requiring emotional and psychological assistance.
Speaking on youth development, the commissioner expressed concern over the rising rate of drug abuse among young people, warning that substance abuse has become a major threat to mental health and social stability.
According to him, the state government is developing policies and awareness campaigns under the MiND initiative that will take anti-drug abuse advocacy directly into communities in order to educate youths on the dangers of substance abuse.
Also speaking at the event, Prof. Lere Baale emphasized the importance of mentorship, counseling, and quality education in helping young people make responsible life choices.
Baale said young people possess unique talents and abilities that can positively transform society if properly guided and supported through the right educational and career opportunities.
“We must teach our children the right things. God has shaped them to change the world despite the challenges they face,” he stated.
The pharmacy expert added that the decisions young people make at critical stages of life often determine their future, stressing the need for mentorship and career counseling to help them navigate educational and professional pathways successfully.
He maintained that Africa, particularly Nigeria, still holds enormous opportunities for growth and innovation despite its current challenges, adding that quality education remains the key to unlocking the continent’s potential.
“There is no place like home. The problems in Africa, especially Nigeria, are also opportunities. What we need is quality education to excel,” he added.
On his part, Dr. Samuel Kayode explained that the conference was designed to bridge knowledge gaps within the healthcare system and inspire young people to pursue careers in medicine and related professions.
According to him, many youths lack adequate understanding of opportunities within the healthcare sector, making it necessary to expose them to the realities, challenges, and rewards associated with medical professions.
Kayode noted that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed serious shortages in healthcare manpower globally and revealed the vulnerability of health systems during emergencies.
He observed that Nigeria’s healthcare workforce crisis has worsened due to the migration of trained professionals abroad, leaving the country with inadequate personnel to cater to its rapidly growing population.
“Globally, the goal is to produce more healthcare personnel, but in Nigeria the situation has become more critical because many professionals are leaving the country,” he said.
The conference also highlighted the importance of workplace flexibility, continuous learning, and career development in retaining healthcare professionals and improving productivity within organizations.
Participants stressed that flexible work schedules, remote work options, and supportive work environments are essential in helping workers balance personal responsibilities with professional demands.
The event featured participation from Jawa Group Nigeria and six secondary schools from across Lagos metropolis, with students engaging in debates and educational activities focused on healthcare, wellness, and career development.
