Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi Address Youth Despair and Mental Health Crisis

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised alarms regarding the growing disillusionment among young Nigerians, who he feels are losing hope in their country’s future. This statement coincides with remarks from presidential candidate Peter Obi, who has linked the prevailing economic hardships to a rising mental health crisis in Nigeria.

During a recent meeting with a group of youths led by Alh. Adamu Bappa Gombe, Abubakar expressed his concern over the challenges faced by the younger generation, including issues of bad governance and electoral fraud. He emphasized the importance of active voter participation, noting that the current voter turnout of only 25% to 30% in elections is inadequate for enacting meaningful change.

Abubakar stated, “I am extremely concerned at how young Nigerians are losing hope about the future of our country.” He reflected on conversations with youths who shared their frustrations over feeling that their votes do not count and how government policies adversely affect their livelihoods. The former Vice President encouraged the youth to mobilize one another to participate in elections, asserting that change can only be achieved through the ballot box.

In his comments, Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, highlighted the alarming state of mental health in Nigeria, particularly as the country faces economic challenges. In a tweet commemorating Mental Health Day on October 10, 2023, he referenced a report from the World Health Organization indicating that approximately 40 million Nigerians are living with mental health conditions, with fewer than 300 psychiatrists available to provide care.

He noted, “Mental health is more important than physical health,” stressing that the overwhelming pressures of poverty and unemployment have left many Nigerians, especially the youth, feeling hopeless and resorting to criminal activities. Obi called upon the government to urgently address these socio-economic issues, which he believes exacerbate mental health problems in the nation.

Both leaders have underscored the critical need for action to improve governance and address the dire economic conditions affecting the youth. Abubakar reiterated his commitment to combating anti-democratic forces and fostering a political environment where the voices of young people can be heard.

As Nigeria grapples with these pressing issues, the implications for its younger population are profound, affecting not only their immediate well-being but also the long-term future of the country.