Anambra Marks International Adolescent Health Week, Prioritizes Physical and Mental Wellbeing of Youths

Anambra State Government has restated its commitment to protecting adolescents’ physical and mental health through targeted interventions.

Officials said ongoing programmes and partnerships aim to equip young people for a healthier future.

The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the physical and mental health of young people as part of activities marking the International Adolescent Health Week, themed “Physical and Mental Health of Adolescents.”

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Ministry’s Headquarters, Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Uchebo Obiageli, who represented the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, described adolescence as a crucial stage of human development that requires dedicated attention and investment.

She said adolescents represent both the present and the future of society, stressing that their wellbeing is central to Anambra’s long-term growth and stability.

“Adolescents today face a double burden,” she said. “They struggle with challenges that affect both their physical and mental health from poor nutrition, unemployment, and exposure to risky behaviors, to stress, depression, bullying, and substance use. Too many suffer in silence due to stigma or lack of support.”

Dr Obiageli stated that the administration of Governor Charles Soludo has intensified efforts to tackle these challenges through targeted health and social initiatives.

She announced that the state is set to commission a newly constructed rehabilitation centre in Nibo to support young people struggling with mental illness linked to substance abuse. The state psychiatric hospital, she added, has been refurbished and upgraded to accommodate the growing number of youths seeking psychiatric and psychological care.

“Seventy percent of the cases seen daily at the facility are attributed to substance abuse,” she revealed. “We are integrating mental health support into schools, communities, and health centres to ensure that no young person feels alone.”

The Permanent Secretary also highlighted state-led initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, including the “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo” program spearheaded by the wife of the governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, which focuses on nutrition, exercise, and preventive health awareness.

She further disclosed that mental health has been incorporated into the state’s HIV/AIDS and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) response, with support from the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and The Carter Centre.

In collaboration with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHNi), the state government has trained teachers on Family Life and HIV Education (FLHE) to strengthen school-based health education and advocacy.

Dr Obiageli emphasized the need for adolescent empowerment through peer-to-peer education, urging young people to take responsibility for their wellbeing and make informed choices.

“Our goal is to raise a generation that is physically strong, mentally resilient, and capable of achieving its full potential,” she said. “But government cannot do it alone we need the active participation of families, schools, religious institutions, healthcare workers, and the media.”

She called on all stakeholders to unite in creating a safe and supportive environment where adolescents can thrive and reach their full potential.

In his opening remarks, the Director of Public Health, Dr Afam Anaeme described adolescents as a key proportion of the global population who must be cared for and guided properly.

“Adolescents are a key proportion in the world,” he said. “They have peculiar issues that require special attention. The government has continued to support them by establishing dedicated health units and providing the right information that will help them make responsible choices.”

Dr Afam added that the International Adolescent Health Week would be marked with various activities aimed at promoting awareness and educating young people on issues affecting their growth and wellbeing.

“By giving them the right information, we are preparing them to be useful to society and to the nation,” he said.

Also present at the press briefing were the Director of Medical Services, Dr Chukwulobelu Ugochukwu, and the Assistant Program Officer, Food Safety and Hygiene/Nutrition, Mrs Amakom Ukamaka.