Foundation Advocates for Mental Health Desks in Police Stations

• The Mind Management Foundation urges the Federal Government to establish mental health desks in police stations for the well-being of Nigeria Police Force personnel
• Barrister Arinze Emmanuel, the Foundation’s Country Director, highlights the need to address mental health concerns among police officers and allocate a specific budget for mental health

The Federal Government is being urged to establish mental health desks in police stations across Nigeria to enhance the medical well-being of Nigeria Police Force (NPF) personnel.

The Mind Management Foundation made this appeal during a mental health awareness training event organized for selected members of the police force in Lagos, as part of the World Mental Health Day activities.

Mental health issues are known to be prevalent among armed forces, police, and other paramilitary bodies, which can contribute to certain personnel exhibiting excessive behaviors.

Barrister Arinze Emmanuel, the Foundation’s Country Director, emphasized the vital role that police officers play in safeguarding citizens’ lives and enforcing law and order in the country, and stressed the need to improve their mental health condition.

Emmanuel stated, “We found out that a lot of people are under immense pressure because of what they go through, making mental health a pandemic. We call on the government, corporate bodies, and all concerned individuals to address this issue. It is a significant concern that requires the attention of authorities, the media, and corporate bodies to help combat this dangerous trend.”

The Foundation also recommended that the federal government allocate a specific budget for mental health, as it is often not given as much importance in budgetary allocations in Nigeria compared to other parts of the world where it is a priority.

Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, AIG Idowu Owohunwa, acknowledged that there is no designated office to monitor the mental health of police officers apart from general medical care. He encouraged the police officers who received the training to apply what they learned and collaborate with the Foundation to improve their mental state. This sensitization is expected to reach a wider audience of police officers as those who attended will share the knowledge with their colleagues.