The Nigerian Senate has called for the inclusion of mental health education in the nation’s school curriculum to tackle the growing psychological challenges affecting students across the country.
The resolution followed concerns over rising cases of depression, substance abuse, and suicide among young people. During a health policy session in Abuja, Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, urged the Ministries of Education and Health to collaborate on integrating mental health studies into all levels of education.
Lens News learnt that the proposed framework will introduce mental health desks, specialized counseling programs, and training sessions for teachers to help identify and support students struggling with emotional distress. The initiative is expected to promote early intervention and reduce stigma surrounding mental illness in schools.
Senator Banigo emphasized that academic excellence must go hand in hand with mental well-being, adding that mental stability is key to productivity and learning outcomes. “We must begin to treat mental health as an integral part of our educational development,” she stated.
Stakeholders at the event, including education experts and psychologists, welcomed the Senate’s move but stressed the need for adequate funding and implementation mechanisms. They urged government agencies to ensure sustainability beyond policy pronouncements.
The Senate’s resolution signals growing national recognition of mental health as a crucial pillar of human development and social progress.
