Mental Health

Improving access to mental health professionals in Nigeria

Led by Dr Emmanuel Essien at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria

Nigeria has a population of over 200 million people, yet fewer than 250 certified psychiatrists. This means that more than 90% of people suffering from a mental illness are missing out on the specialist care they need. A key reason for this is the emigration of skilled professionals as they move abroad for better opportunities - a phenomenon known as ‘brain drain’.

With Foundation funding, Dr Emmanuel Essien from the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar and Dr Mariana Pinto da Costa from King’s College London investigated the factors driving this trend. They found that over half of early-career psychiatrists were already taking practical steps to leave the country, with two-thirds actively planning to leave, and four in five considering it. Their reasons ranged from low pay and poor working conditions to limited training and career development opportunities.

Now, Emmanuel and Mariana will build on their work, engaging with high-level stakeholders and government committees to generate debate and influence policy. They will create evidence briefings, infographics and explainer videos, and reach broader audiences through media engagement, journalist training and a social-media campaign.

The project aims to prevent further loss of mental-health professionals and promote equitable access to psychiatric care across Nigeria.