In a strong show of advocacy and awareness, the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Katamaran Deck, in collaboration with the Young Elites Society of Ijebuland (YES), commemorated World Mental Health Day 2025 with a live radio talk show aired on Lion 93.9 FM, spotlighting this year’s global theme: “Access to Mental Health Services in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”
The event brought together mental health professionals, advocates, and community leaders to dissect key issues including stigma, access to care, early intervention, and the pressing need for mental health integration at the grassroots level.
One of the lead voices on the programme, Mr. Niyi Adesoye, a neuro-pharmacologist and YES member, did not mince words:
“The issue of mental health has not been taking seriously in Nigeria. How many Federal Neuropsychiatric hospitals do we have? About five. The government needs to make mental health care accessible at the Primary Health Centres (PHC). Sadly, many still suffer in silence due to stigma and misinformation.”
He also pointed to the increasing burden on young Nigerians, citing unemployment, substance abuse, depression, and social pressure as driving forces of the crisis. “Community-based awareness, such as what Pyrates Confraternity is doing today, plays a vital role in breaking these barriers,” he added.
Phoning in from Abuja, Dr. Aina Ayodeji, a member of the NAS, echoed the call for sustained engagement: “We need more proactive support systems, and initiatives like this radio programme are steps in the right direction.”
Dr. Adeyemi Olusola, Second Mate of the NAS Katamaran Deck, reaffirmed the group’s dedication to mental health advocacy:
“As an organization deeply rooted in promoting human rights and social justice, we understand that mental health is central to human dignity. Through this platform, we aim to amplify expert voices and encourage open conversations within our communities.”
The event was both interactive and educational, providing listeners with practical guidance on where and how to seek help.
Mr. Dayo Adekoya, President of YES, praised the collaboration:
“Our organization had to partner with the National Association of Seadogs on the awareness drive because the initiative is in line with the core essence of our existence as a society in terms of health and public welfare.”
Closing the event, Comrade Jamal Apena, Deck Capoon of NAS Katamaran Deck, underscored the essence of the day: “World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder that mental well-being is an essential part of our overall health and a fundamental human right. As we mark the day, we re-affirm our commitment to continue with the awareness campaign on the subject matter.”
The programme leaves no doubt: mental health must remain front and center in Nigeria’s public health discourse and community-led advocacy of this kind is leading the charge.
