Oluremi Tinubu Urges Nigerians to Show Compassion, Break Silence on Mental Health

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to embrace compassion, connection, and care for one another as the world marks the 2024 World Mental Health Day, celebrated globally on October 10.

The theme for the 2025 observance, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” highlights the importance of providing mental health care during crises and humanitarian emergencies.

Mrs Tinubu said the theme serves as a reminder for everyone to reach out and genuinely connect with others, especially in times of distress, while advocating for the mental well-being of those affected.

She noted that mental health continues to be under-prioritised in emergency responses globally, leaving many people unsupported in the aftermath of trauma, loss, and disaster situations.

The First Lady called on Nigerians to break the silence surrounding mental health issues, stressing that creating safe spaces for open conversations is crucial to healing and building stronger, more empathetic communities.

“We must bridge this urgent gap and build environments where people feel safe to discuss anxiety, depression, or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), without fear of judgment, shame, or discrimination,” she said.

Mrs Tinubu further called for greater attention to vulnerable groups, including children, women, displaced persons, and victims of violence or disaster, who often suffer silently due to lack of support.

“Let us turn our attention to these unseen burdens and ensure that mental health support becomes a guaranteed right for all, especially the most vulnerable,” she added.

Encouraging citizens to show empathy and stay connected, the First Lady said, “Check on someone today. Be the access. Happy World Mental Health Day.”