Declare state of emergency on drug abuse – Ogun psychiatrist tells FG

Dr. Abayomi Oluseyi Olajide, a psychiatrist at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Abeokuta, Nigeria, has urged the government to declare a state of emergency on drug abuse. During the Mental Health Awareness Walk Rally, Olajide highlighted that 90% of psychiatric hospital beds, both private and public, are occupied by individuals suffering from substance use disorder.

He noted a surge in drug abuse among secondary school students, commercial drivers, and females. Olajide, who chairs the Mental Health Action Committee in Ogun State, emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the issue. This includes implementing drug prevention programs in educational institutions, providing support groups for those experimenting with drugs, and ensuring full rehabilitation and reintegration for addicts.

He also criticized the growing mental health crisis in the country, attributing it to economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, kidnapping, and poverty. According to Olajide, less than 10% of Nigerians with mental health challenges have access to care, with most treatments being paid out-of-pocket as health insurance does not adequately cover mental health issues.

Dr. Sunday Amosun, the Acting Provost and Medical Director of the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, identified poor sleep as the initial sign of mental health problems. He urged Nigerians to seek medical help if they experience persistent sleep disturbances, racing thoughts, or hearing voices. Regarding drug abuse, Amosun reported that it has escalated beyond cocaine and heroin to include sniffing pit latrines, glue, petrol, turpentine, kerosene, synthetic cannabis, and illegal substances like Colorado, Arizona, and Loud.

He pointed out that Nigeria's status as a drug transit route exposes young people to illicit substances, calling for collective efforts from parents, families, religious groups, NGOs, and government. The president of the ARD Aro, Abeokuta, Dr. Chidi Ikwumezie, explained the choice of the Ita-Oshin Motor Park for the rally as a strategic move to reach a busy community space where people live and work, rather than waiting for them to visit the hospital.

The next phase of the rally will be a free medical outreach on October 10, 2026, featuring physical and mental health screenings, consultations, counseling, health education, free medications, and referrals.