Babcock University Champions Faith-Science Partnership to Tackle Nigeria’s Mental Health Crisis

Amid rising concern over mental health in Nigeria, the World Health Organization estimates that more than 20 percent of the country’s 200 million citizens live with mental health conditions. Yet fewer than 10 percent receive adequate treatment, largely due to limited resources and persistent stigma.

Against this backdrop, Babcock University convened the sixth edition of its Faith Integration (IFI) Symposium to explore how faith-informed approaches can complement scientific practice in addressing the nation’s mental health challenges.

The symposium, themed “Healing Body and Soul: Faith-Informed Approaches in Psychology and Mental Health,” was held at the university’s Babcock Business School auditorium. Organized by the Office of the Special Adviser to the President/Vice Chancellor on AAA/IBE/IFL under the leadership of Prof. Constance Nwosu, the event brought together healthcare professionals, clergy, academics, and students to examine the intersection of spirituality and psychological care.

Dr. Olaniyi Arije, Vice President for Advancement and Development, opened the gathering by commending the organizers for spotlighting mental health, describing it as critical to collective wellbeing. He encouraged participants to use the forum as an opportunity for learning, collaboration, and reflection.

Among the featured speakers was Dr. Adebola Omotosho, a lecturer and consultant health physician at the Babcock University Teaching Hospital. She underscored the foundational role of mental health in overall wellbeing and called for stronger, more integrated support systems that acknowledge patients’ spiritual worldviews while adhering strictly to ethical, evidence-based practice.

Addressing common misconceptions, Dr. Omotosho stressed that faith-informed care does not replace science or medication. Rather, it respectfully incorporates a client’s spiritual perspective – where appropriate – into clinical treatment. Healing, she noted, occurs at the intersection of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.

Chaplain Sylvester Afanga of the Babcock University Teaching Hospital highlighted the responsibility of faith leaders in reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek professional help. He advocated mental health training for chaplains and the creation of safe spaces within faith communities to support recovery.

Also speaking at the symposium, Miss Oluwamuolamide Omole, a final-year student of Medicine and Surgery, emphasized the importance of healthy lifestyle choices and strong social connections in achieving holistic wellbeing.

Interactive sessions during the event offered practical strategies for managing stress, including intentional rest, structured daily routines, and timely professional support.

In closing, speakers reiterated that faith and mental health practice are not adversaries but partners in fostering healing. The symposium concluded with a call to build environments where individuals can thrive mentally, relationally, and spiritually, reinforcing the message that mental healthcare in Nigeria requires a holistic, inclusive approach.