A Lecturer and Consultant Health Physician at the Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan-Remo in Ogun State, Adebola Omotosho has called for stronger, more integrated support systems that acknowledge patients’ spiritual worldviews while adhering to ethical, evidence-based practice in the treatment of mental issues
Dr Omotosho was among those who featured as speakers during the sixth edition of Faith Integration (IFI) Symposium convened by Babcock University to examine how faith-informed approaches can complement scientific practice in addressing the nation’s mental health challenges.
There has been growing concern over mental health in Nigeria, World Health Organization estimates that more than 20 percent of the country’s 200 million citizens are affected by mental health conditions. Yet fewer than 10 percent receive adequate treatment, largely due to limited resources and persistent stigma.
The Consultant Health Physician speaking further at the symposium, themed “Healing Body and Soul: Faith-Informed Approaches in Psychology and Mental Health,” held at the university’s Babcock Business School auditorium, underscored the foundational role of mental health in overall wellbeing
Addressing common misconceptions, Dr. Omotosho emphasized that faith-informed care does not replace science or medication. Rather, it involves respectfully incorporating a client’s spiritual perspective—where appropriate—into clinical treatment.
Healing, she said, occurs at the intersection of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.
Chaplain Sylvester Afanga of the Babcock University Teaching Hospital highlighted the responsibility of faith leaders in reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek professional help.
He advocated mental health training for chaplains and the creation of safe spaces within faith communities to support recovery.
Also speaking at the symposium, Miss Oluwamuolamide Omole, a final-year student of Medicine and Surgery, stressed the importance of healthy lifestyle choices and strong social connections in achieving holistic wellbeing.
Dr. Olaniyi Arije, Vice President for Advancement and Development had earlier opened the gathering by commending the organizers for spotlighting mental health, describing it as essential to collective wellbeing.
He encouraged participants to use the forum as an opportunity for learning and reflection.
Interactive sessions during the event provided practical strategies for managing stress, including intentional rest, structured daily routines, and timely professional support.
In closing, speakers reiterated that faith and mental health practice are not adversaries but partners in fostering healing. The symposium concluded with a call to create environments where individuals can thrive mentally, relationally, and spiritually, reinforcing the message that mental health requires a holistic and inclusive approach.
Organized by the Office of the Special Adviser to the President/Vice Chancellor on AAA/IBE/IFL under the leadership of Prof. Constance Nwosu, the event brought together healthcare professionals, clergy, academics, and students to explore the intersection of spirituality and psychological care
Pix:The Facilitators - Oluwamuolamide Omole, fianl year medical student, (third left), Dr. Adebola Omotosho, Lecturer and Consultant Health Physician at Babcock University Teaching Hospital (6th left) and Chaplain Sylvester Afanga, (right) pose with Convener, Prof. Constance Nwosu (middle) Dr. Obinna Okoro, Deputy Director, Academic Planning (5th left) and other officers of Babcock University.
Pix :Mr. Chibundu Eti, programme compere makes a point as facilitators listen with interest: (seated l - r): Miss Oluwamuolamide Omole, Dr. Adebola Omotosho, Lecturer and Consultant Health Physician at Babcock University Teaching Hospital and Chaplain Sylvester Afanga, Hospital Chaplain at BUTH.
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