As part of activities marking Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, members of the Lagos Marvel Lions Club, in collaboration with Ikeja Aviation Lions Club, Ikeja Platinum Lions Club, and Ilupeju Diamond Lions Club, organized a highly impactful community advocacy walk in Gbagada, Lagos, on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
The event, themed “Breaking the Silence; Building Support,” was designed to promote open dialogue, reduce stigma, and raise awareness about the importance of mental health as a cornerstone of overall well-being. The walk sought to remind individuals and families that mental wellness is as essential as physical health and that early intervention and community support can save lives.
The advocacy walk commenced at the Gbagada Roundabout and proceeded through major streets to the Deeper Life Church area, where passionate Lions engaged residents in conversations about mental wellness. Along the route, participants distributed educational flyers and hand fans containing key facts, warning signs, and practical tips for maintaining sound mental health.
In Nigeria, an estimated one in four people will experience a mental health challenge in their lifetime, yet over 80% of those affected do not receive adequate care due to stigma, limited awareness, and inadequate mental health infrastructure. Across Africa, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 116 million people suffer from depression and anxiety disorders, while globally, nearly one billion individuals live with mental health conditions. These alarming statistics highlight the urgency of advocacy efforts such as this one.
Speaking on behalf of the organizers, Lion Olakunbi Labiyi President of Lagos Marvel Lions Club, emphasized the importance of the campaign, saying: “Mental health is everyone’s concern. When we break the silence, we break barriers. As Lions, we are committed to creating safe spaces for conversation, compassion, and community support. Every mind matters, and together, we can build a society that listens, understands, and cares.”
The walk was part of the Lions Clubs International’s global service focus on health and wellness, demonstrating the organization’s enduring commitment to humanity. By fostering awareness, empathy, and education, Lions of District 404B2 Nigeria reaffirmed their dedication to serving with heart and promoting a mentally healthy society.
The initiative concluded with renewed calls for increased investment in mental health services, continuous education, and stronger community support networks to ensure that no one suffers in silence.
