Group appeals to government to prioritise mental health
The Founder of Mandate Health Empowerment Initiative (MHEI), Mr Ameh Zion, has appealed to Federal Government to prioritise mental health in the quest to attain Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by the year 2030.
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He made the appeal when the group paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Alex Egbona, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Speciality Healthcare on Wednesday in Abuja.
Zion, who is also the Convener, Association of Mental Health Reform Organisations in Africa (AMHROA), said that the advocacy visit marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to prioritise mental health in UHC in the country.
He expressed the hope that the appeal would be heard and acted upon by government.
He emphasised the importance of integrating mental health into the national healthcare system, adding that, “UHC aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of financial situation, can access healthcare services they need.
“We are calling for the promotion of rights-based national legislation that includes mental health, as well as the integration of mental health
into primary healthcare to strengthen the foundation of UHC.”
He also advocated increased financing of mental health issues through engagement with global health financing mechanisms such as the Global Fund and Gavi, the vaccine alliance.
In his response, Egbona highlighted the importance of mental health and the need to adopt the National Mental Health ACT 2021.
He commended the group for the visit and efforts made toward prioritising mental health.
