The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) convened a landmark National Mental Health Summit with the theme: “Faith and Mental Health: Break the Silence” yesterday in Abuja.
The event which coincidentally was held on World Mental Health Day, drew a large gathering of stakeholders, including government officials, mental health professionals, and representatives from faith-based organizations.
In his opening remarks, the CAN President – His Eminence, Archbishop Daniel Okoh underscored the imperative of addressing Nigeria’s pressing mental health challenges. “The theme, “Faith and Mental Health: Break the Silence,” is both a call to awareness and a call to action. For too long, discussions about mental health have remained in the shadows of stigma, ignorance, and fear. Many suffer quietly — even within our churches — struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or emotional exhaustion. They are often misunderstood or judged, instead of being supported and guided toward healing. This summit challenges us to bring light into those dark places and to create an environment of compassion and understanding”. Archbishop Okoh stated.
“This summit, therefore, is more than a meeting — it is the beginning of a movement. A movement where the Church, the government, and the people join hands to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of background or status, can live with dignity, peace of mind, and a sense of belonging”.
Dr. Audu Mohammed delivered a thought-provoking keynote address, exploring the intersections of faith and mental health. He emphasized the potential for faith-based organizations to provide holistic support, combining emotional, spiritual, and practical care for individuals navigating mental health challenges.
The summit featured contributions from representatives of various government agencies and organizations, including the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, FCT Health Secretariat, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), UNWOMEN, Christian Health Association of Nigeria (CHAN), The Leprosy Mission Nigeria (TLMN), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) among others.
Participants commended CAN for organizing the event and reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at improving mental health outcomes in Nigeria.
The National Mental Health Summit provided a vital platform for sharing insights, best practices, and resources pertinent to addressing Nigeria’s mental health crisis. Discussions underscored the urgency of increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and enhancing access to mental health services, particularly through partnerships between faith-based organizations, healthcare providers, and government bodies.
While speaking, CAN’s Director for National Issues and Social Welfare – Sp. Apostle Commodore Abimbola Ayuba, highlighted CAN’s dedication to advancing mental health advocacy and its recognition of the essential contribution of faith communities in fostering mental wellness across Nigeria.
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