Osun State Police Command holds mental health lecture for officers

The Osun State Police Command in Nigeria organized a mental health awareness lecture for its officers to promote psychological well-being and emotional resilience. The initiative, held to commemorate World Mental Health Day, aimed to sensitize personnel to the mental health challenges inherent in policing, such as exposure to stressful situations, security threats, and emergency responses.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (Dr) Iyiola Ogundimite, head of the command’s police hospital, stated that the program encourages officers to prioritize their well-being to ensure sound judgment, professionalism, and respectful public engagement. Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Zungura added that mental health is an integral part of police welfare, noting that emotionally healthy officers are better equipped to discharge their duties and uphold human rights.

During the session, psychiatrist Dr T. Ayantola from the Federal Psychiatric Hospital in Abeokuta discussed stress management, the importance of rest, peer support, and the early identification of psychological distress. Officers were encouraged to support colleagues and avoid stigmatizing those experiencing mental health challenges.