By Beatrice Okon
In a significant move to prioritize mental well-being among women in Nigeria, the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), under the leadership of its National President, Princess Edna D.D. Azura, hosted a groundbreaking Mental Health Education Symposium on April 15, 2025, in Abuja.
Themed “Breaking the Silence: Empowering Women’s Mental Health in Nigeria”, the symposium was organized in collaboration with the Olajumoke Humanitarian Foundation, Farms, Flowers and Allied Products Initiatives (FFAP), and African Women in NGO (AWINGO). The event brought together health professionals, advocates, development partners, and women leaders from across the country.
In her opening remarks, Princess Edna called for an end to the silence and stigma surrounding mental health, particularly among women who often shoulder the dual responsibilities of family and community care. “It’s time to create a safe space where women can speak freely about their mental struggles without fear of judgment,” she said, stressing that women’s mental health must be treated as a national priority.
The event aimed to raise awareness, encourage open dialogue, and promote practical strategies for mental resilience. It also served as a platform to advocate for stronger mental health support systems and policies, especially for women in underserved communities.
Speaking on the role of economic empowerment in mental wellness, Mrs. Christy Sani Yakubu, President of Farms, Flowers, and Allied Products Initiatives (FFAP), emphasized the connection between mental health and economic participation. She noted that women involved in agriculture and entrepreneurship face unique mental stressors and must be supported through targeted interventions. “We recognize that supporting women's economic empowerment directly contributes to healthier families and communities,” she said.
Dr. Saadatu Adamu, President of AWINGO, called for the institutionalization of mental health conversations through an annual calendar of activities. She encouraged women to seek professional help and build support networks. “Break the silence and make yourself your number one priority,” she urged.
Mrs. D.E. Olajumoke, President of the Olajumoke Humanitarian Foundation, reiterated her foundation’s commitment to women’s health education and empowerment. She encouraged women to embrace self-care and mental wellness as essential components of a fulfilling life.
Participants at the symposium left with renewed commitment to fostering safe spaces, ending stigma, and championing mental health as a fundamental human right for all Nigerian women.