LAGOS/Nigeria: Health professionals have called on Nigerian universities to strengthen counselling services, adopt clear mental health and substance-use policies, and improve access to treatment and rehabilitation as part of efforts to address drug abuse and psychological distress among students.
The recommendations were made during a two-day Campus Mental Health Awareness and War Against Drug Abuse programme organised by Caleb University’s Centre for Counselling and Development Services in collaboration with the institution’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Club.
The programme formed part of activities marking the 2026 World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10, and brought together mental health professionals, university officials and students to discuss ways of promoting psychological wellbeing and preventing substance misuse within the campus community.
Dr Dokun Adedeji, Chief Executive Officer of the Compassionate Care Recovery Initiative, spoke on “Actualising a Drug-Free Caleb University: Stakeholders and Responsibilities,” stressing that sustained progress would require honest conversations about substance use and cooperation among students, parents and university management.
Adedeji said drug misuse should be treated as both a behavioural and public health concern, rather than addressed solely through denial or punishment.
He urged the university to improve its counselling services, establish clear policies on mental health and substance use, educate parents and provide appropriate pathways to treatment and rehabilitation for students who need assistance.
He also encouraged students to resist peer pressure and seek professional help early, while advising parents to remain actively involved in their children’s lives, pay attention to behavioural changes and demonstrate responsible conduct.
Dr Ayodeji Ajayi, a clinical psychologist at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, addressed the subject of mental health challenges in Nigeria, describing the situation among young people as a serious public health concern requiring coordinated action.
Ajayi identified anxiety, depression, stigma, inadequate awareness and limited access to mental health services among the challenges affecting young people. He noted that misconceptions about mental health could prevent individuals from recognising their difficulties or seeking appropriate care.
While acknowledging the significance of Nigeria’s National Mental Health Act of 2023, he stressed that legislation alone would not guarantee effective services without adequate funding, implementation and accessible treatment facilities.
He called for stronger mental health support in schools and primary healthcare centres, as well as improved identification of psychological distress and timely intervention.
Ajayi maintained that addressing mental health challenges among young people required shared responsibility among families, educational institutions, healthcare professionals, religious leaders and government agencies.
Dr Sanmi Ibidapo, Acting Director of Caleb University’s Centre for Counselling and Development Services, focused on practical ways students could protect their mental wellbeing.
He explained that mental health could affect students regardless of their academic performance or outward appearance, urging them to pay attention to persistent changes in their emotions, thoughts, behaviour and physical wellbeing.
Ibidapo encouraged students to develop healthy routines, including adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, emotional regulation and responsible social media use. He also advised them to maintain supportive relationships and avoid relying on alcohol or non-prescribed drugs to cope with stress.
He emphasised the importance of seeking assistance early, supporting peers who might be experiencing difficulties and challenging the stigma that often surrounds mental health conditions.
According to him, students should regularly assess their wellbeing, connect with trusted people and seek professional support when necessary.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olalekan Asikhia, was represented at the programme by the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Adetayo Olorunlana, who described the initiative as part of the university’s commitment to developing students beyond academic achievement.
A student panel discussion, moderated by Ayoola Lasebikan, a 400-level student in the Department of Psychology, provided an opportunity for participants to share experiences of mental health challenges on campus and discuss coping strategies.
The session reflected the 2026 World Mental Health Day theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” which emphasises the importance of involving people with lived experience in decisions affecting mental health policies, services and support systems. The theme is confirmed by the World Health Organization.
The programme also featured a campus awareness rally designed to encourage open discussions about mental health, promote responsible choices and increase awareness of the risks associated with substance misuse.
Participants began the walk at the Department of Psychology before proceeding to the university’s main gate and student halls of residence. Along the route, they distributed information leaflets and engaged students and staff in brief educational conversations.
Student volunteers also made announcements about the campaign’s objectives, while inspirational music helped attract attention to the activities.
The rally ended at the Administrative Block, where the participants were received by the University Bursar, Mr Adesina Abubakre, who represented the Vice-Chancellor.
Abubakre emphasised the importance of mental wellness and a drug-free learning environment in supporting academic performance and the broader development of students. He commended the Centre for Counselling and Development Services for its work on mental health awareness and substance-abuse prevention.
The programme underscored the importance of combining awareness campaigns with accessible counselling, early intervention, professional treatment and cooperation among universities, families and healthcare providers.
For institutions seeking to address student mental health challenges, the experts’ recommendations point to the need for sustained support systems that encourage students to seek help without fear of stigma and provide appropriate care when difficulties arise.
