Over 40 Million Nigerians Battle Mental Illness: YALI Urges States to Implement New Act

Mental Health Statistics in Nigeria
Call to Action by YALI
Government Initiatives
Expert Advocacy for Mental Health

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 20 percent of Nigerians, which amounts to approximately 40 million people, are struggling with various forms of mental illness.

The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) has urged state governments to adopt the National Mental Health Act 2021 to enhance access to mental health services and safeguard the rights of affected individuals.

During a virtual sensitization and advocacy program held to commemorate this year’s World Mental Health Day, Dr. Ajanson Peter, the President of the YALI RLC Alumni Association Nigeria, stated that the lack of state-level adoption of the law continues to jeopardize the lives of millions suffering from mental health disorders.

He expressed concern that many Nigerians experiencing mental health issues face discrimination and violations of their rights due to insufficient legal and institutional safeguards.

Referencing WHO data, Ajanson mentioned, “The organization estimates that 20 percent of Nigerians, or around 40 million people, are affected by mental illness.”

Among the most common conditions are depression and anxiety disorders. In 2017 alone, approximately 7 million Nigerians (3.9% of the population) were diagnosed with depressive disorders, while 4.9 million (2.7%) experienced anxiety disorders.

YALI has called on governments, donors, and humanitarian partners to prioritize investments in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), warning that neglecting mental health could undermine broader humanitarian efforts in health, education, nutrition, and livelihoods.

“With adequate resources and commitment, mental health care can reach individuals even in the most challenging circumstances,” Ajanson remarked, commending the Federal Government for enacting the National Mental Health Act (2021), launching a National Suicide Prevention Strategic Framework (2023–2030), and adopting the National Mental Health Policy (2023).

However, he noted that “there is still much more work to be done” to ensure effective implementation at the state level.

Additionally, psychologist and mental health expert Yetunde Awobode urged Nigerians to extend compassion to those grappling with mental illness and to cease the stigmatization of patients.

Likewise, Tezzy Ilozue, a psychotherapist and relationship counselor, highlighted the importance of raising awareness about postpartum depression, emphasizing the need for husbands and family members to provide emotional support to women after childbirth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of Nigerians are affected by mental illness?

Approximately 20 percent of Nigerians, or about 40 million people, are affected by various forms of mental illness.

What actions has YALI urged state governments to take?

YALI has called on state governments to domesticate the National Mental Health Act 2021 to enhance access to mental health services and protect the rights of individuals affected by mental illness.