Some experts in health psychology have urged University management in the country to strengthen their counseling services, establish clear mental health and substance-use policies, educate parents, and provide access to treatment and rehabilitation to check drugs abuse in their institutions.
They gave the advice during a two-day programme on Campus Mental Health Awareness and War Against Drug Abuse held at Caleb University Centre in Ikorodu, Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme was organised by the Caleb University Centre for Counselling and Development Services, in collaboration with the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Club, as part of activities commemorating the 2026 World Mental Health Day.
Dr Dokun Adedeji, the Chief Executive Officer, Compassionate Care Recovery Initiative (CCRI) an organisation devoted to rehabilitating people with drug addiction in different parts of Nigeria, spoke on “Actualising a Drug-Free Caleb University: Stakeholders and Responsibilities".
According to him, achieving a drug-free Caleb University requires honesty about substance use and the active involvement of students, parents and the University management.
He highlighted the need to address drug misuse as both a behavioural and a public health concern, rather than relying on denial or punishment alone.
Adedeji urged the University management to strengthen counselling services, establish clear mental health and substance-use policies, educate parents, and provide access to treatment and rehabilitation.
He encouraged Students to resist peer pressure and seek help early, while parents were advised to remain involved, observant and responsible role models.
Dr Ayodeji Ajayi, a clinical psychologist from the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, spoke on “Mental Health Challenges in Nigeria: A Reality and Ticking Time Bomb.”
Ajayi described youth mental health challenges in Nigeria as an urgent public health concern requiring immediate and collective action.
He highlighted the growing burden of anxiety and depression among young people, alongside limited access to mental health services, stigma, inadequate awareness and misconceptions that prevent many from seeking appropriate care.
Ajayiacknowledged the progress represented by Nigeria’s National Mental Health Act of 2023 but stressed that legislation alone cannot guarantee access to effective care.
He called for stronger mental health services, particularly in schools and primary healthcare settings, alongside adequate funding and early identification of psychological distress.
Ajayi maintained that the country’s youth mental health crisis is serious but preventable and manageable through shared responsibility.
He said families, schools, healthcare professionals, faith leaders and government institutions must work together to promote awareness, reduce stigma and ensure timely access to appropriate support.
Also, Dr Sanmi Ibidapo, the Acting Director, Centre for Counseling and Development Services, Caleb University Centre for Counseling and Development Services (CCDS)
spoke on youth mental health awareness tips.
He emphasised that mental health is essential to students’ wellbeing, academic success and future potential.
The Acting Director noted that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of academic performance or outward appearance, and encouraged students to recognise persistent changes in their emotions, behaviour, thinking and physical wellbeing.
He urged them to practise healthy daily habits, including adequate sleep, healthy eating habits, emotional regulation, balanced use of social media and the maintenance of supportive relationships, and advised them against using alcohol or non-prescribed drugs to cope with stress.
Ibidapo also stressed the importance of seeking help early, supporting one another and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, and encouraged students to pause, check on themselves, connect with trusted people and seek professional help when required.
NAN reports that the Vice-Chancellor Prof Olalekan Asikhia was represented by the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof Adetayo Olorunlana, who noted that the programme was an important part of the University’s commitment to building the total person.
NAN also reports the programme also featured a students’ panel session, anchored by Ayoola Lasebikan, a 400-level student of the Department of Psychology.
In keeping with the 2026 World Mental Health Day theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” the panelists shared their personal experiences on mental health challenges around campus, and coping mechanisms to encourage other students.
NAN reports that the programme, comprised a campus rally and an awareness walk, was aimed at promoting mental wellbeing, encouraging open conversation about mental health, and building a world-class, drug-free University that fosters a supportive environment for both students and staff.
The first day witnessed an awareness rally across the campus.
Participants converged at the Department of Psychology, from where the rally proceeded to the University Main Gate and around the students’ halls of residence.
Along the route, the team distributed flyers and engaged students and staff in brief educational conversations on mental health and drug abuse.
Soft inspirational music was played throughout to attract attention, while student volunteers walked around and made announcements on the focus of the campaign.
The rally culminated at the Administrative Block, where participants were warmly received by the University Bursar, Mr Adesina Abubakre, who represented the Vice-Chancellor.
In his remarks, Mr Abubakre emphasised the importance of mental wellness and of maintaining a drug-free campus environment for sustained academic excellence.
He commended the Centre for Counselling and Development Services for its efforts in promoting mental wellness and working towards a drug-free Caleb University.
