The Founder of the Mandate Health Empowerment Initiative (MHEI), Mr Ameh Zion has appealed to Federal Government to prioritize mental health in the quest to attain Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by the year 2030.
He made the appeal when the group paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Specialize Healthcare Hon. Alex Egbona on Wednesday in Abuja.
Zion, who is also the Convener, Association of Mental Health Reform Organization in Africa (AMHROA), said that the advocacy visit marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to prioritize mental health in UHC in the country.
He expressed the hope that the appeal would be heard and acted upon by government.
He emphasized the importance of integrating mental health into the national healthcare system, saying “UHC aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of financial situation, can access healthcare services they need.
“We are calling for the promotion of rights-based national legislation that includes mental health, as well as the integration of mental health into primary healthcare to strengthen the foundation of UHC.”
He also advocated increased financing of mental health issues through engagement with global health financing mechanisms such as the Global Fund and Gavi, the vaccine alliance.
In his response, Egbona highlighted the importance of mental health and the need to adopt the National Mental Health ACT 2021.
He commended the group for the visit and efforts made toward prioritizing mental health.
