FUNAAB Muslim Community Women Forum Hosts Milestone Seminar on Female Mental Health

The Women Forum of the Muslim Community, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), today, June 18, 2026, held the maiden edition of its Women Seminar with the theme, "Breaking the Silence: Mental Health Awareness and Support for Women," to promote mental health awareness and emotional well-being among women.

Speaking at the event held at the Postgraduate School Auditorium, the Amirah of the FUNAAB Muslim Community, Prof. Ganiyat Olatunde, described mental health as a critical aspect of overall well-being that is often overlooked despite the multiple responsibilities women shoulder in society. She noted that the seminar was designed to provide a platform for learning, experience-sharing, and professional guidance, while encouraging women to support one another in line with Islamic values of compassion and care.

Delivering the keynote lecture titled, "Breaking the Silence: Mental Health Awareness and Support for Women," Consultant Psychiatrist at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Dr. Ibrahim Opeewe, emphasised the need to foster open conversations on women's mental health. He highlighted factors such as child abuse, economic hardship, domestic violence, infertility, workplace discrimination, caregiving responsibilities, loneliness, and widowhood as major contributors to mental health challenges among women.

Dr. Opeewe explained that mental health goes beyond the absence of illness, describing it as a state of well-being that enables individuals to cope effectively with life's challenges and contribute meaningfully to society. He identified depression as one of the most common mental health disorders among women and urged participants to prioritise their mental well-being, seek professional support when necessary, and utilise available support systems.

In their separate Goodwill Messages, a former University Librarian, Dr. Mulikat Salaam; Dean, College of Biosciences (COLBIOS), Prof. Iyabode Kehinde and Prof. Adesina Agboola commended the Women Forum for organising the initiative. They also acknowledged the participation of women from different faiths, describing it as a reflection of the cordial relationship and peaceful coexistence within the University Community.

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

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