The Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, FNPH, Kaduna has commenced activities to mark the 2026 World Mental Health Day with a pledge to promote mental health awareness, strengthen staff engagement and amplify the voices of people living with mental health conditions.
The celebration is anchored on the global theme: “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.”
Activities began on Wednesday, 7 October, 2026 with a mental health awareness outreach to nine secondary schools across Kaduna State where students and teachers were sensitised on “How to Protect Your Mental Health.”
The sessions focused on early warning signs of mental health challenges, pressures associated with adolescence, factors affecting mental well-being, coping strategies, healthy protective habits and when to seek professional help.
The campaign continued on Thursday, 8 October with a community awareness rally that took the message beyond the hospital walls.
Speaking during the rally, the Medical Director of the Hospital, Professor Aishatu Yusha’u Armiya’u, commended staff for their dedication and commitment, noting that members of the workforce were increasingly taking ownership and giving their best in service delivery.
She said the theme for this year’s celebration resonated with the hospital’s own experience, as some staff had worked for many years without the enabling environment to make their voices heard.
She added that improvements in the system were creating a more supportive atmosphere and encouraging staff to contribute meaningfully to institutional growth.
Professor Armiya’u stressed that the theme extends beyond healthcare workers to patients and other users of the hospital’s services.
“Those receiving care must be actively involved in conversations and initiatives that shape mental health services, as their experiences and perspectives are essential to achieving meaningful and lasting change,” she said.
Extending the spirit of the celebration to the host community, the Medical Director provided cash support to about 10 petty traders encountered along the rally route to help strengthen their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Other activities to mark the day included indoor and outdoor games, dancing and a football match between clinical and non-clinical staff, with winners receiving medals and gifts.
As FNPH Kaduna joins the global community to mark World Mental Health Day, the hospital reiterated the need to listen to lived experiences, challenge stigma, encourage early help-seeking and build a society where everyone can speak openly about mental health and access care with dignity.
