A Remarkable Feat for Mental Health Awareness
Akinrodoye Dare, known as Coach Dreh, etched his name in history by completing an extraordinary swim across the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos. In a daring feat that lasted two hours and 33 minutes, he covered the entire 11.8-kilometre length of the bridge, defying all odds and raising awareness about mental health, suicide, and depression.
Coach Dreh’s journey began at 9:28 am on Sunday, as he plunged into the waters of the Lagos Lagoon, which flows beneath the iconic Third Mainland Bridge. His mission was clear: to spotlight the concerning trend of past suicide attempts on this very bridge. With over a decade of experience in the aquatic realm, Coach Dreh demonstrated that swimming transcends mere physical prowess—it symbolises resilience and the power to overcome.
Celebrating the feat, Coach Dreh said, “In a world where mental health struggles can feel isolating, we offer hope, extend a helping hand, and show that no one is alone in their battles with mental health and suicidal thoughts.”
Accompanied by teammates, supporters, media personnel, and essential medical staff, Coach Dreh navigated the Lagos Lagoon’s depths, ranging from 36 to 54 metres, without the safety of a life jacket. His journey led him through the heart of the city, where the Lagos Lagoon feeds into the Atlantic Ocean via Lagos Harbour—a vital channel spanning 0.5 to 1 km in width and stretching 10 km.
A captivating video capturing his swim has taken the internet by storm, showcasing Coach Dreh’s unwavering determination. Upon completing this gruelling challenge, he was safely pulled from the water and provided immediate medical attention to recover his strength.
In the wake of Coach Dreh’s inspiring feat, discussions surrounding suicide prevention and mental health advocacy have gained momentum. The Nigeria Suicide Advocacy Group has called for the decriminalisation of suicide, recognizing it as a critical step toward advancing suicide prevention efforts in the country.
Prof. Taiwo Sheikh, a consultant psychiatrist, emphasised the need to address legal barriers hindering suicide prevention initiatives in Nigeria. He highlighted the outdated laws criminalising suicide, stressing the imperative of legislative reform to facilitate access to support services and accurate data collection.
Despite the challenges posed by existing legal frameworks, advocates remain steadfast in their commitment to effecting change. Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mohammed Tajudeen Mohammed, acknowledged the legal complexities surrounding suicide but emphasised the importance of advocacy and education in fostering understanding and empathy.
Prof. Cheluchi Onyemelukwe, a lawyer, emphasised the significance of engaging governmental stakeholders to enact meaningful reforms. She emphasized the enforcement of existing health laws and emphasised the role of national-level engagement in driving policy change.
Dr. Jibril Abdulmalik, a consultant psychiatrist, reiterated that suicide is a preventable tragedy, underscoring the importance of early intervention, public awareness campaigns, and community support networks. His call to action resonates with the broader goal of fostering a society where individuals feel empowered to seek help and support one another in times of need.
As Coach Dreh’s courageous swim sparks conversations and galvanises action, the collective effort to prioritise mental health and suicide prevention continues to gather momentum. Together, communities can break down barriers, promote awareness, and foster a culture of compassion and support for those struggling with mental health challenges.
