By Okechukwu Keshi Ukegbu
A United Kingdom-trained mental health practitioner, Raymond Ndubueze Ehiemere, has called for urgent and collaborative efforts to tackle the growing cases of mental illness in Nigeria.
Ehiemere said the rising mental health crisis in the country can no longer be ignored because of its devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities.
“In communities across Nigeria, thousands of individuals are silently battling mental health challenges—often without support, without understanding, and without access to care. For many, stigma replaces compassion, and silence replaces treatment,” he said.
The mental health practitioner, who founded the Advent Mental Health Foundation Trust, noted that the worsening mental health situation in Nigeria inspired the establishment of the organisation.
Located in Ntighauzo, Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State, the foundation aims to provide practical support through medical assistance, counselling services, awareness campaigns, and other mental health interventions.
According to Ehiemere, the foundation is developing a structured and community-focused approach to mental healthcare aimed at reducing stigma and improving access to treatment.
“The Advent Mental Health Foundation Trust is building a structured, community-focused approach to mental health support. We aim to break stigma through targeted mental health awareness campaigns—helping people understand that mental health is just as important as physical health,” he stated.
He added that the organisation is working toward providing in-person counselling and treatment services through a network of qualified professionals, while formal partnerships are being finalised.
“We are actively working towards providing in-person counseling and treatment through a network of qualified professionals. While formal partnerships are still being finalized, the foundation is being laid now,” Ehiemere added.
The practitioner also disclosed that discussions are ongoing with the Abia State House of Assembly to address the growing number of mentally ill destitute persons on the streets across the state.
He further revealed that the foundation is seeking collaboration with the Abia State Government and the World Health Organization (WHO) to strengthen mental health support systems and improve care delivery for affected persons.
