A Non-Governmental Organisation, Secure the Future International Initiative (SDF-I), has called for increased investment and multi-sector collaboration to address the persistent underfunding of mental health globally.
The Founder of SDF-I, Dr. Saadatu Adamu, made the call during the seventh Annual Mental Health International Conference held in Abuja with the theme “Regaining Youth Mental Health in a Digital World: Identity, Overload and Connection.”
Dr. Adamu emphasised the need to view mental health as a fundamental human right rather than a privilege, stressing that Africa has a unique opportunity to pioneer innovative and culturally grounded approaches to mental health care.
“Africa, with its youthful energy and resilient spirit, can lead in shaping inclusive and sustainable mental health solutions,” she said.
“We invite governments, institutions, organisations, and individuals to invest in research, policy, education, and community-based initiatives that will influence the next generation.”
She added that SDF-I has continued to play a transformative role in breaking the silence and stigma around mental health issues, describing the organisation as a movement shaping conversations and changing narratives across communities.
In his remarks, the Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, highlighted the importance of supporting the mental well-being of young people as a pathway to securing a brighter future.
Represented by Mr. Emmanuel Essien, Head of Youth Health, Mental and Psychosocial Affairs at the ministry, Olawande noted that while the digital space offers young people identity, creativity, and connectivity, it can also expose them to emotional strain and mental overload.
“The theme of this year’s conference challenges us to reimagine youth mental health in a digital world where identity is curated, overload is constant, and connection is increasingly virtual,” he said.
“We must listen deeply, act boldly, and create systems that empower youth to thrive mentally and emotionally.”
Also speaking, Ms. Amarachukwu Orakwe, Vice President of the African Union Youth Club (AUYC), Nigeria, underscored the importance of prioritising self-awareness and emotional stability in leadership.
“Leadership today is not just about holding office but about influence and impact,” she said.
“We must protect our mental wellbeing even in a world that constantly demands performance and rewards appearances over authenticity.”
The event featured goodwill messages, the unveiling of MinDr.App, paper presentations, and breakout sessions on topics such as building mental resilience in a digital world and digital wellbeing and self-regulation strategies.