FULafia 40th Inaugural Lecture: Prof. Charity Takyun Advocates Practical Strategies to Combat Mental Health Crisis

Professor Charity Justin Takyun, a distinguished Professor of Medical and Health Psychology at the Federal University Lafia (FULafia), has warned that mental illness remains a significantly underestimated threat to Nigeria’s social stability and economic productivity. 

Delivering the University's 40th Inaugural Lecture on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the institution's Multipurpose Hall, Prof. Takyun explored the theme, “Navigating Life’s Challenges: Understanding and Addressing Mental Illnesses.” 

Prof. Takyun argued that mental health challenges extend far beyond the individual, creating a ripple effect that weakens family structures, reduces workforce productivity, and erodes community resilience. She noted that unmanaged stress—often fueled by Nigeria's current economic hardships, academic pressures, and social expectations—frequently transitions from temporary discomfort into chronic mental health conditions. 

“Stigma often worsens the situation,” Prof. Takyun observed, noting that social taboos in Nigeria continue to discourage individuals from seeking professional help, allowing treatable issues to escalate into full-blown crises.