NAS Aurora Flotilla Marks World Mental Health Day with Lecture, Awareness Walk in Kaduna
By Uangbaoje Alex, Kaduna
As part of activities marking this year’s World Mental Health Day, the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Aurora Flotilla Deck, Kaduna Chapter, held a lecture and road walk to promote awareness on mental health and access to care.
The lecture, themed “Access to Service: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” took place on October 10, 2025.
It featured two seasoned mental health experts, Dr. Ephraim Asquo and Dr. Nnamdi Eneh, who examined the growing challenges of mental health, particularly in times of crisis.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Nnamdi Eneh, Head of Medicals, NAS Aurora Flotilla Deck, Kaduna State, stressed that the world is facing multiple crises like wars, natural disasters, economic hardship, insecurity, and isolation.
All of which have severe psychological impacts on individuals and communities.
“There’s an urgent need for increased awareness and understanding of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders.
“Advocacy to improve access and delivery of mental health services is essential to ensure that those in need can get timely help,” Dr. Eneh said.
He further explained that chronic stress caused by daily life pressures can negatively affect the body’s systems if not properly managed.
He encouraged individuals to exercise regularly, eat healthy, rest adequately, stay connected with loved ones, and seek professional help when necessary.
“There is no health without mental health,” he emphasized, quoting the World Health Organization’s definition of health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.
The NAS Aurora Flotilla Deck complemented the lecture with a road walk on October 11, 2025, starting from Sabo GRA up to Sabo-Tasha market, reaching over 8,400 men, women and young people.
Members, accompanied by drummers and volunteers, distributed flyers and interacted with residents to raise awareness about mental health.
According to the association, the activity reflects its ongoing commitment to advocacy, humanitarian service, and promoting community well-being.
“Mental health is a priority. Our collective well-being is vital, and creating access to care is important,” Dr. Eneh noted.
Globally, nearly one billion people suffer from mental health conditions, especially depression and anxiety disorders, underscoring the need for sustained education and early intervention.
