In an unprecedented collaborative initiative to address the critical issue of mental health in the legal profession and in the society in generally, the Nigerian Bar Association, Gwagwalada Branch (Eagle Bar) in stragetic partnership with the National Hospital, Abuja is proud to announce a transformative and compelling webinar titled “Developments in Mental Health Issues and Law in Nigeria”, with a special focus on Mental Health and Wellbeing of Legal Professionals in Nigeria.
Mental health is fundamental to individual, professional, organizational, and national well-being. The increasing number of reported and unreported mental health cases, even among legal professionals, has become a worrisome concern. The exacerbated challenges in recent times is majorly due to the psycho-social problems brought on by economic meltdown, political crises, unemployment, insecurity, and social unrest.The predicament of people suffering mental health related issues is largely compounded owing to denials, mysteries, stigmatization, discrimination, and lack or improper appreciation of relevant law. Until January 2023 when former President Muhammadu Buhari signed the Mental Health Bill into law, apart from the dynamic effort of Lagos State Government, Nigeria only had an obsolete law which dated to 1920 and reviewed in 1964.
The legal profession in Nigeria, much like in the larger society, is characterized by high levels of stress and pressure.
The pressures associated with the demands of the legal profession can lead to a range of mental health issues, from anxiety, to burnout, and to more severe conditions. Recent revelations have shed light on the urgent need to address this issue head-on to ensure collective wellbeing, safety, and the sanctity.
This Webinar themed, ‘ *Developments in Mental Health Issues and Law in Nigeria’* comes up online this Thursday 18th April, 2024 by 2:00pm via Zoom platform. It’s a free webinar, but immediate registration is strongly advised in order to reserve your participation, please click – https://www.bit.ly/EAGLEBAR.
The webinar will feature a distinguished panel of speakers who will share their insights and experiences. Speakers are Dr. Olusegun Shoyombo; Mr. Kehinde Ogunwumiju, SAN, OFR; Dr. Tunde Ojo; Mr. Ededem Ani (AG Cross River; and Dr. Mojisola Akerele.
The President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr. Yakubu C. Maikyau SAN, OON, and the President of the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria, Prof. Taiwo Obindo, are the Special Guests.
The Moderator is the firebrand Abuja-based human rights lawyer, Mr. Pelumi Olajengbesi. The Hosts are Prof. Mahmud Raji, CMD, National Hospital Abuja, and Emmanuel Tayo Ogunjide, Chairman NBA Gwagwalada Branch. See attached fliers for details.
This is a must-attend Webinar for Judicial Officers, Legal Practitioners, Law Students, stakeholders within the legal profession, and those in the larger society who wishes to gain a deeper understanding of mental health and how to navigate it in a high-pressured environment.
Topics include: Mental Health & Society: Myths, Manifestations & Management; The Mental Health Act 2023: Overview, Prospects, Challenges, & Opportunities for Legal Practitioners; Analyzing Mental Health & Wellbeing in the Society; Prioritizing Mental Health and Well-Being in the Workplace; Law and Wellness: Navigating Mental Health & Wellbeing in the Legal Industry.
The National Hospital, a frontline healthcare provider and a flagship medical institution in Nigeria, is endowed with sophistication in human and material resources and dedicated to quality services towards the wellbeing and wellness of Nigerians.
The NBA Gwagwalada Branch, on the other hand, is a vibrant high-flying Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, covering 4 Area Councils of the FCT, and highly committed to the promotion of the objectives of the Nigerian Bar Association towards better society.
This webinar aims to break the silence on mental health and provide valuable insights into this often-overlooked issue, therefore, underscoring the commitment of both the National Hospital and the NBA Gwagwalada to the mental wellbeing of Nigerians.
Please join us for this pivotal event as we take the bold and best step towards a healthier, safer, and better life. To secure your spot in a very limited space, please register now by clicking – https://www.bit.ly/EAGLEBAR. For more information or inquiry, please call or send SMS to Mr. Hassan Luqman – +2347066573618 or Dr. Olusegun Shoyombo – +2348028155900.