UNILAG Vice-Chancellor Champions Mental Health Integration in Pharmacy Training
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, has made a compelling case for the urgent integration of mental health literacy into pharmacy education across Nigeria. This strategic move aims to combat the escalating mental health challenges facing the nation.
Professor Ogunsola delivered this crucial message during the eighth Ladipo Abisogun-Afodu annual Pharmacy lecture held on November 20, 2025. The academic leader emphasized that pharmacists occupy a unique position in the healthcare system to provide essential psychosocial support and care for individuals grappling with mental health issues.
Bridging Gaps in Mental Healthcare Through Pharmacy
Represented by Professor Ademola Oremusu, the Provost of UNILAG's College of Medicine, the Vice-Chancellor outlined a comprehensive approach to addressing mental health challenges. She urged academic institutions nationwide to incorporate mental health literacy directly into pharmacy curricula while calling on professional bodies to provide continuous training in psychosocial care for practicing pharmacists.
The lecture, themed 'Mental health in a disruptive economy: The impact of community pharmacists,' highlighted the profound connection between economic instability and deteriorating mental health. The discussion revealed how economic pressures have significantly increased the prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression among Nigerians.
Guest lecturer Adewale Oladigbolu, Senior Vice President at Advantage Health Africa, reinforced the critical role community pharmacists can play in bridging mental healthcare gaps, particularly in underserved and rural communities. He referenced the World Health Organisation's 2022 report that exposed Nigeria's substantial burden of mental, neurological, and substance use disorders, coupled with an inadequate support system.
Call to Action for Government and Young Pharmacists
Professor Ogunsola made a direct appeal to government agencies, urging them to include community pharmacies in mental health policy formulation. This inclusion would enable pharmacists to contribute more effectively to addressing Nigeria's mental health crisis through their widespread community presence.
The event also featured a powerful call to action for young pharmacists, encouraging them to embrace their role as custodians of community well-being. Participants were urged to provide guidance, empathy, and support to individuals struggling with mental health challenges in their respective communities.
Sunday Adesegun, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy, reiterated the importance of pharmacists in fostering mentorship and promoting mental health awareness. The lecture series has evolved into a significant platform for celebrating excellence, facilitating knowledge sharing, and promoting professional growth within Nigeria's pharmaceutical community.
In a highlight of the event, Chidalu Benedicta, a student from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, received the sixth research grant of N2.5 million to support her doctoral degree programme, demonstrating the commitment to advancing pharmaceutical education and research in Nigeria.
