The Edo State Government has taken proactive steps to improve mental health support services by initiating discussions with the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Uselu, aimed at providing better treatment and rehabilitation for vulnerable individuals rescued from public spaces.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Eugenia Abdallah, disclosed this development during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Benin.
Abdallah explained that the engagement forms part of the state’s broader commitment to strengthening coordination with specialised mental health institutions for the care of rescued persons across Edo. While no formal agreement has been signed yet, both parties are exploring ways to ensure improved access to professional care and long-term support.
She highlighted the growing challenge of mentally ill individuals roaming the streets and stressed the need for enhanced collaboration with non-governmental organisations, development partners, and community groups. Current rehabilitation facilities in the state are limited and heavily overstretched, making sustained interventions essential for effective removal, treatment, and reintegration programmes.
The commissioner cited the case of Peter Guobadia, a 53-year-old Benin indigene recently deported from the United States, as an example of ongoing efforts. Guobadia was discovered along Airport Road after residents raised concerns about his condition. He was promptly taken into protective custody and referred to the Ministry for necessary medical evaluation and rehabilitation.
Before his admission, Guobadia reportedly mentioned living in the United States for several years and being deported after spending time in a rehabilitation facility there. However, he struggled to recall specific details about his family members or home address in Benin, complicating immediate family tracing efforts.
Ministry officials have since facilitated his admission to the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital for comprehensive assessment and treatment. Preliminary observations indicate signs of severe depression, alongside other health conditions including diabetes, a heart condition, and low potassium levels. Further clinical investigations are ongoing.
Head of Clinical Services at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Uselu, Dr. Osaretin Owie, affirmed the hospital’s readiness to support the state government’s initiatives. He emphasised that all admissions must follow standard clinical procedures, including proper assessment and documentation. The hospital has previously identified opportunities for technical collaboration, such as staff training, improved case management, and community mental health outreach.
Dr. Owie noted that the facility continues to receive patients from Edo and neighbouring states due to the limited number of specialised neuropsychiatric centres in the region. He stressed the importance of early referral for better diagnosis, treatment, and recovery outcomes.
Senior Social Welfare Officer, Esther Eruanga, called for stronger partnerships with NGOs and other stakeholders to expand rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation services. She identified the lack of a dedicated state-owned shelter as a major gap and noted the increasing pressure on existing facilities.
