Nigeria’s Mental Health Infrastructure: A Review of States with Neuro-Psychiatric Hospitals

According to recent data released by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMOH&SW), a total of nine states in Nigeria have neuro-psychiatric hospitals, providing crucial mental health services to the population.

The states with these specialized facilities are Borno, Cross River, Edo, Enugu, Kaduna, Lagos, Ogun, Sokoto, and an unspecified state in the South-South (SS) region, as well as the South-West (SW) region.

This development is a significant step towards addressing the country’s mental health challenges, which have been exacerbated by various factors, including insecurity, economic hardship, and social inequality.

The presence of neuro-psychiatric hospitals in these states is expected to improve access to mental health care, reduce stigma associated with mental illness, and enhance the overall well-being of citizens.

The distribution of these hospitals across the country is noteworthy, with a relatively even spread across the northern and southern regions.

The inclusion of states like Borno and Sokoto, which have been affected by insurgency and banditry, is particularly significant, as it acknowledges the unique mental health needs of populations affected by conflict and violence.