FIC Report (Edo State) – The Federated Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, in collaboration with the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Uselu, Benin City, has announced plans to host its highly anticipated 2026 Annual Lecture coupled with a comprehensive Mental Health Awareness Campaign. This initiative aims to shed light on the critical importance of mental health, emphasizing its role in fostering a resilient and productive society.
Under the theme, “Knowing Your Mental Health Status: A Prerequisite for a Robust and Productive Economy,” the two-day event is scheduled to commence on Thursday, July 23, 2026, with a city-wide mental health sensitization and awareness campaign across Benin City. The highlight of the program will be the annual lecture, slated for Friday, July 24, 2026, at the NUJ Edo State Council Secretariat located at No. 1 Reservation Road, G.R.A., Benin City.
The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Okonkwo Bartholomew, a Senior Registrar at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Uselu. His lecture is expected to focus on the importance of mental health awareness and early intervention, especially among vulnerable groups such as commercial drivers, whose mental well-being significantly impacts road safety and overall community health.
Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Comrade Edosa Okunbor, explained that focusing on mental health aligns with the chapel’s commitment to public enlightenment and community development. He emphasized that the campaign aims to foster greater understanding of mental health challenges, promote early detection, and encourage emotional well-being among Citizens.
In addition, the event will feature a sub-theme titled “Mental Health Awareness and the Role of Opposition Parties in a Democratic System,” providing a platform for discussions on the intersection of public health and democratic governance. Stakeholders from various sectors, including government officials, civil society organizations, transport operators, students, and journalists, are invited to participate actively in the discourse.
The Federated Chapel of the NUJ and the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital have expressed their commitment to making this initiative impactful, aiming to enhance societal understanding of mental health issues and promote healthier, more resilient Communities.
This collaborative effort underscores a broader national push to prioritize mental wellness as a fundamental component of societal progress, with organizers hopeful that the event will inspire lasting change and increased community engagement in mental health matters.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO, FIC Benin.
July 21st, 2026.
