Ogun State has recorded more than 10,000 visits to its mental health facilities in Abeokuta, Ijebu Ode, Ilaro, and Ota during the first half of 2025.
Tomi Coker, the state’s Commissioner for Health, disclosed this on Friday at a news conference in Abeokuta, marking the 2025 World Mental Health Day. Speaking through Kayode Oladehinde, the ministry’s permanent secretary, she said nearly 1,000 of the patients were visiting for the first time, while the rest were follow-up cases.
“The figures highlight the growing mental health burden in Ogun State and the chronic nature of these conditions,” Coker said. She added that the most common disorders recorded included psychosis, neurosis, epilepsy, depression, and substance use disorders.
Coker described this year’s Mental Health Day theme, “Access to Services Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” as particularly timely. She noted that disasters—from floods and disease outbreaks to insecurity, conflicts, and natural calamities—have far-reaching psychological effects beyond the immediate physical and economic damage.
To commemorate the day, the state government has planned awareness campaigns and community mobilisation initiatives aimed at promoting mental well-being. The commissioner stressed that addressing mental health challenges requires collective effort.
“Families should foster safe spaces for open conversations about mental health. Employers should create supportive work environments. Religious and community leaders must use their influence to promote care and compassion, and the media should report responsibly, challenge stigma, and spread hope,” she said.
Coker reaffirmed Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration’s commitment to providing sustainable and affordable healthcare for all residents, ensuring that mental health services remain accessible, acceptable, and affordable to everyone.
