FUNAAB Muslim Community Women Forum Holds Maiden Seminar on Women’s Mental Health

The Women Forum of the Muslim Community, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), on June 18, 2026, held its maiden women’s seminar aimed at promoting mental health awareness and emotional well-being among women.

The event, held at the Postgraduate School Auditorium, was themed “Breaking the Silence: Mental Health Awareness and Support for Women.”

Speaking at the seminar, the Amirah of the FUNAAB Muslim Community, Prof. Ganiyat Olatunde, described mental health as a vital component of overall well-being that is often neglected despite the multiple responsibilities carried by women in society. She explained that the programme was designed to create a platform for learning, experience-sharing, and professional guidance, while encouraging mutual support among women in line with Islamic principles of compassion and care.

Delivering the keynote lecture, Consultant Psychiatrist at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Dr. Ibrahim Opeewe, stressed the importance of open dialogue around women’s mental health. He identified key contributing factors to mental health challenges among women, including child abuse, economic hardship, domestic violence, infertility, workplace discrimination, caregiving responsibilities, loneliness, and widowhood.

Dr. Opeewe noted that mental health extends beyond the absence of illness, describing it as a state of well-being that enables individuals to cope with life’s challenges and contribute meaningfully to society. He highlighted depression as one of the most prevalent mental health conditions affecting women and urged participants to prioritise self-care, seek professional help when necessary, and take advantage of available support systems.

In their goodwill messages, former University Librarian, Dr. Mulikat Salaam; Dean of the College of Biosciences (COLBIOS), Prof. Iyabode Kehinde; and Prof. Adesina Agboola commended the Women Forum for the initiative. They also praised the participation of women from different faiths, describing it as evidence of peaceful coexistence within the university community.

A highlight of the seminar was the presentation of an Appreciation Award to Prof. Iyabode Kehinde in recognition of her contributions and support to the Forum.

Dignitaries present at the event included former Acting Registrar, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Dawodu; Chief Imam of the FUNAAB Muslim Community, Prof. Idris Ayinde; Dean, College of Food Science and Human Ecology (COLFHEC), Prof. Adebukunola Omemu; as well as other members of the university community.