The Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, has called for increased funding and government support to address the growing challenges in mental health care. The hospital’s Medical Director, Dr. Olugbenga Owoeye, made this appeal during an official visit by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako.
According to Owoeye, while the government has demonstrated commitment to mental health initiatives, more resources are needed to sustain and expand the hospital’s services. He pointed out that the rising number of patients, along with increasing cases of drug addiction, has placed significant strain on the facility. Without adequate funding and infrastructure, these challenges will be difficult to manage.
“To maintain our position as a leading provider of mental health care in Nigeria, further government intervention is crucial,” he said.
Dr Oweye also disclosed that despite the institution making notable progress, including accreditation as a training and examination center for the National Postgraduate Medical College and the West African College of Physicians, the hospital continues to struggle with funding limitations. It has an impressive success rate, with over 80 percent of its resident doctors passing their programs and a 100 percent pass rate in its psychiatric nursing program. However, several key areas still require urgent intervention to properly maintain the increasing patient capacity.
Owoeye also revealed that the hospital spends over half a million naira on electricity every month, yet its overhead allocation remains insufficient to cover this expense.
In response to these concerns, Minister Salako acknowledged the hospital’s achievements and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to improving mental health care. He assured that the newly signed Mental Health Bill would expand mental health services and establish a dedicated department within the Federal Ministry of Health.
“With the signing of the Mental Health Bill into law, we are prepared to take bold steps to prioritize mental health in Nigeria. This includes addressing drug abuse, supporting indigent patients, and enhancing infrastructure at psychiatric institutions like this one,” he said.
Salako also disclosed that the government is considering a Vulnerable Support Fund in the 2024-2025 budget to assist indigent patients. Additionally, efforts are underway to address manpower shortages and streamline approval processes for healthcare workers.
Furthermore, he encouraged the hospital to explore digital technology to modernize mental health care services and improve efficiency.
“Digital technology is key to modernizing mental health care. I encourage the hospital to explore partnerships that can facilitate this transition,” he added.