The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Lagos State Command, has called for wider access to affordable, quality and confidential mental healthcare for young Nigerians, urging stakeholders to address the stigma surrounding mental illness.
The Controller of Corrections in Lagos State, Daramola George, made the appeal in a goodwill message delivered by the Deputy Controller of Corrections, Ajayi Francis, at the fourth Vanguard Mental Health Summit in Lagos.
The summit, organised by Vanguard Media Limited, was themed “Advancing Youth Mental Health in Nigeria through Access, Action and Advocacy.” Discussions focused on youth mental wellbeing, social media, technology and digital responsibility.
George described mental health as essential to individual wellbeing, productivity and national development, noting that young people require adequate support to learn, work, innovate and contribute to society.
He warned that ignoring mental health challenges could have serious consequences for individuals, families, communities and the country at large.
The controller called for coordinated efforts involving government agencies, healthcare professionals, parents, schools, religious institutions, businesses, civil society organisations, technology companies and the media to improve access to mental health services.
He advocated stronger mental healthcare delivery at primary healthcare centres, expanded community-based support systems and the responsible use of digital platforms to provide counselling and related services.
According to him, access to mental healthcare should not depend on an individual’s income or location. He stressed that young Nigerians deserve affordable, confidential services that meet professional standards.
Addressing the influence of social media, George said digital platforms could support learning, creativity, peer interaction and mental health awareness. However, he noted that they could also expose young people to cyberbullying, online harassment, misinformation and harmful content.
He called for improved digital literacy, healthier online habits and safer digital spaces where young people could discuss their experiences without fear of discrimination or judgment.
George also urged Nigerians to challenge misconceptions about mental illness, emphasising that seeking professional help should be viewed as a responsible decision rather than a sign of weakness.
He called on media organisations, influencers, content creators, technology companies and public institutions to promote accurate and sensitive information about mental health.
The controller further stressed the importance of involving young people in developing policies and programmes intended to improve their wellbeing, saying their experiences with social media, education, employment and relationships should guide relevant interventions.
He urged participants at the summit to turn discussions into practical policies and measurable outcomes, noting that sustained cooperation among stakeholders was necessary to ensure young Nigerians receive the mental health support they need to reach their full potential.
