By Peter
A new mental health outpatient facility, Kings Psychiatry, has officially opened in Lagos to address Nigeria’s growing treatment gap, as experts warn that fewer than 300 psychiatrists are available to meet the mental health needs of over 220 million people.
The clinic offers psychiatric evaluations, counselling, psychotherapy, substance use disorder treatment, and crisis intervention services, aiming to provide accessible, stigma-free mental healthcare to Nigerians.
Launched amid growing concerns about the country’s mental health crisis, the facility promises evidence-based, compassionate care in an environment designed to restore dignity to patients while addressing the severe shortage of mental health specialists nationwide.
Bridging the Gap in Mental Healthcare
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Dr. Oluwatoyin Oladejo, CEO of Kings Psychiatry and a United States-trained healthcare entrepreneur, described Nigeria’s mental health situation as a “silent epidemic” requiring urgent national attention.
“I was initially based in the US, but when I looked back home, I realised there’s a huge gap in mental healthcare in Nigeria. There are only 300 psychiatrists managing healthcare for 220 million people, so obviously, they need help. That’s what led me to set up Kings Psychiatry,” Oladejo stated.
She highlighted that about one in four Nigerians will experience a mental health challenge in their lifetime, yet nearly 80% of those affected cannot access treatment due to cost, stigma, and the shortage of trained professionals.
“Statistics show that almost 80% of people will not be able to get mental healthcare because of lack of funding, resources, and financial barriers. We’re here to bridge that gap,” she added.
Patient-Centered Care with Privacy and Professionalism
Kings Psychiatry was designed to meet international standards, emphasizing privacy, professionalism, and patient confidentiality. Operating on an appointment basis, the facility ensures discreet and affordable care for all patients.
“Patients can call, book confidentially, and receive care without fear of exposure. We have created a safe, judgment-free environment because mental healthcare must be accessible, respectful, and private,” Oladejo said.
While the facility does not currently admit inpatients, severe cases are referred to appropriate hospitals with follow-up support provided.
Advocating for Mental Health Integration in Primary Care
Beyond clinical services, Kings Psychiatry aims to serve as a consultancy, reform, and advocacy centre, promoting the integration of mental health screening into Nigeria’s primary healthcare system.
Oladejo highlighted the absence of routine mental health screenings in primary care facilities as a major policy gap.
“What we are proposing is the integration of mental health screening into primary care. When people come for checks like hypertension, diabetes, or antenatal visits, they should also be screened for depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues,” she explained.
Such integration would help identify conditions like postpartum depression early and prevent tragic outcomes.
“Primary healthcare providers should be empowered to start basic treatment immediately instead of waiting for a psychiatrist the patient may never see,” she added.
Community Outreach and Stigma Reduction
Kings Psychiatry also plans large-scale community outreach targeting schools, universities, churches, and workplaces to address issues such as bullying, substance abuse, anxiety, and attention disorders like ADHD from an early stage.
Oladejo decried the deep-rooted stigma surrounding mental illness, which forces families to hide affected relatives rather than seek help. She called for stronger engagement with religious institutions, particularly churches, to improve awareness and encourage early intervention.
“Churches have influence. If their leaders are educated about mental health, they can guide their members to seek professional help rather than promote silence and fear,” she noted.
The National Importance of Mental Health
Addressing stigma is crucial to ensure patients seek treatment without fear of judgment. Untreated mental illnesses reduce workplace productivity, destabilize families, and place a financial burden on the country.
“If we intervene early in schools, we can reduce online abuse, workplace violence, and broken families. Mental health is not a luxury; it is a national productivity issue,” Oladejo said. She urged the government to prioritize mental health on the same level as national security and physical healthcare.
She also called for stronger partnerships with government, civil society, and the media to “break the silence” around mental health.
Catering to All Age Groups
Mr. Seye Oladejo, co-founder of the facility and Lagos APC Publicity Secretary, explained that the centre would cater to children, adolescents, and adults.
“From recent experiences in our nation, the downturn of the economy has increased mental health challenges. Depression and substance abuse are rising, and this facility will provide top-notch care while creating awareness for mental health issues,” he said.
The centre will initially operate as an outpatient service, with plans to expand into full community-based and inpatient care, including detoxification services in collaboration with federal agencies.
“Our goal is to provide evidence-based, compassionate, and confidential mental healthcare in an environment that restores dignity to patients. Mental illness should not be treated like a crime… Someone in crisis needs urgent medical and psychological support, not prosecution,” Seye Oladejo emphasised.
He further stressed the importance of ensuring political leaders and public office holders are in the right mental state to make critical decisions affecting the nation.
