The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Oxbow Marino Deck, has expressed concern over the rising cases of mental health challenges among youths and working-class Nigerians, calling for increased government investment, improved healthcare facilities and sustained public awareness to address the growing problem.
The association made its position known during a live radio advocacy programme on Peoples FM 93.1, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, to commemorate World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2026. The programme was sponsored by NAS, Oxbow Marino Deck, with the theme:
Lived Experiences, Real Voices, Real Changes.
The discussion featured:
Dr. Okoh Michael Chike, Senior Registrar at the Mental Health Unit of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa;
Dr. Lawrence Ayah Iruo, Ag. Head of the Department of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Federal University of Otuoke; and
Dr. Tari Amakoromo,
Ag. Head of Department of Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State.
The association was represented by Fieye R. Sam-Ateki, Buksaylor of Oxbow Marino Deck, and Oti Premobowei, Second Mate of Oxbow Marino Deck.
In his message, the Capoon of NAS, Oxbow Marino Deck,
Arc. Binafeigha Timiebi, PhD, emphasised that mental health was a concern for everyone, noting that many people silently battle emotional and psychological difficulties that may not be immediately apparent to others.
“Mental health is a concern for everyone, and behind every person may be a struggle we cannot see, so we must listen with patience and respond with compassion rather than judgment,” he said.
He encouraged members of the association and the wider community to support one another by checking in on people, creating opportunities for open conversations and encouraging those experiencing mental health difficulties to seek assistance from qualified professionals.
“No one should have to face a mental health challenge alone,” he added.
The programme examined the causes of mental health challenges, the shortage of trained professionals, inadequate equipment and treatment facilities, the high cost and limited availability of essential medication, economic hardship and the growing misuse of dangerous illicit substances, particularly among young people.
Speaking during the programme, Dr. Lawrence Iruo expressed concern over the increasing burden of mental health conditions in Nigeria, attributing the situation partly to the severe shortage of mental healthcare professionals, especially at the grassroots and community levels.
According to him, mental healthcare professionals should be available at the community level to promote mental well-being, prevent mental illness and ensure early identification and treatment of affected persons.
He noted that the shortage of personnel and the limited number of psychiatric facilities had made it difficult to provide adequate care to people experiencing mental health challenges.
Dr. Iruo stressed that mental healthcare should not be limited to the treatment of established illnesses but should also encompass mental health promotion, prevention and community-based support.
Also speaking, Dr. Okoh Michael Chike highlighted the difficulties confronting healthcare professionals at the Mental Health Unit of the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, particularly the lack of adequate equipment and the challenges associated with obtaining essential psychiatric medications.
“We find it difficult, even at times, to get drugs. It is very challenging, but we are trying our best to see what we can do to help people with mental health challenges,” he said.
Dr. Chike further observed that economic difficulties and substance misuse were among the factors contributing to the mental health problems being presented at healthcare facilities.
He expressed particular concern over the consumption of methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice,” among young people, warning that substance misuse could have serious consequences for individuals, families and society.
In his contribution, Dr. Tari Amakoromo underscored the importance of raising awareness, reducing stigma and mobilising support for mental healthcare. He observed that the shortage of trained personnel remained a significant obstacle to effective mental health service delivery.
He explained that efforts were being made through education, training and public enlightenment to encourage more students and healthcare professionals to embrace mental health and psychiatric nursing.
According to him, attracting more professionals to the field is essential to addressing the growing needs of society and strengthening the delivery of mental healthcare services.
The discussants also called for increased support from federal and state governments, educational institutions, multinational organisations and international development partners for mental health education, research, training and service delivery.
They observed that mental health has not received the same level of attention and support as some other areas of healthcare, particularly in the provision of scholarships, specialised institutions, essential medications and publicly supported treatment programmes.
The participants further identified social stigma and misconceptions as significant barriers that discourage people from seeking help or pursuing careers in mental healthcare.
They therefore called for sustained public enlightenment to promote understanding, empathy and acceptance, while urging families and communities to support individuals experiencing mental health difficulties rather than isolate or discriminate against them.
The discussion also drew attention to the plight of vulnerable people experiencing mental health challenges who roam the streets of Yenagoa, as well as concerns about the conditions in some care facilities. The participants stressed the need for government intervention, appropriate accommodation, improved supervision and access to professional treatment.
They urged the government to strengthen existing mental health services in Bayelsa State, improve access to essential medicines, invest in specialised facilities and expand community-based mental healthcare.
The radio programme provided an opportunity for members of the public to contribute to the discussion, with callers appealing for more affordable treatment, improved care facilities and increased government attention to mental health challenges.
The National Association of Seadogs, Oxbow Marino Deck, reaffirmed the importance of sustained advocacy and public education in addressing mental health concerns. The association’s participation in the programme reflected its commitment to promoting public health awareness, encouraging responsible community engagement and supporting efforts to reduce stigma and improve access to mental healthcare.
The programme concluded with appreciation to the participating health professionals, the radio station and listeners who contributed to the discussion, alongside a call for collective action to ensure that people experiencing mental health challenges receive the care, dignity and support they deserve.
