As Nigeria battles a severe and escalating mental health crisis, key stakeholders in the health sector, policymakers, and human rights activists have raised the alarm that the country is facing a hidden epidemic of substance abuse, with one in seven Nigerians aged 15 to 64 involved in drug abuse.

In light of this pressing issue, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa, Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, Honorable Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, both spoke at the 7th Public Lecture organized by the Board of Fellows of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (BOF-PSN), themed “Mental Health: A Basic Human Right Crucial to Personal, Community, and Socio-Economic Development.” They commended the efforts of BOF-PSN in combating drug abuse and pledged their support for ongoing initiatives.

Brigadier General Marwa emphasized the urgency of addressing the intertwined issues of mental health and substance abuse, stating, “Mental health is central to human development. It is more than the absence of mental illness; it is a state of well-being in which individuals can realize their potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities.” He acknowledged the high prevalence of mental health disorders, particularly in Nigeria, as a serious public health concern, and commended the BOF-PSN for their significant role in raising awareness and advocating for change.

Similarly, Hon. Obasa affirmed the critical importance of mental health, remarking, “Every individual deserves access to mental healthcare, irrespective of their socio-economic status. It isn’t a luxury, but a necessity.” He highlighted the legislative measures taken in Lagos State to address these challenges, such as the Lagos State Mental Health Science Law of 2018, which emphasizes the protection and care of individuals with mental health conditions and promotes access to treatment.

Both leaders stressed the need for collaboration among all stakeholders to combat the rising tide of substance abuse. Marwa pointed out the achievements of the NDLEA in the past year, detailing that the agency seized over 200 million pills of Tramadol and arrested 95 drug barons, emphasizing that “the fight against drug abuse requires a collective approach from all stakeholders.”

Hon. Obasa echoed this sentiment, stating, “We must advocate for policies that promote mental health and fight against the stigmatization of mental health disorders.” He called for regular interaction between health professionals and government institutions to drive meaningful change, emphasizing the need for partnership in tackling drug abuse effectively.

As they concluded their remarks, both Brigadier General Marwa and Hon. Obasa pledged continued support for the BOF-PSN’s initiatives, recognizing the importance of joint efforts in creating a healthier and safer society. Their commitments to combat drug abuse through education, advocacy, and strengthened policy frameworks reflect a unified resolve to prioritize mental health as a fundamental human right essential for national development and community well-being.