…Mental Health Services Restored at Adeoyo; Nurses’ Identity Rebranded Statewide
In a renewed commitment to improving mental healthcare delivery, the Oyo State Government has reopened the psychiatric unit at the Ring Road State Hospital, Adeoyo, following a period of temporary closure.
The announcement was contained in a press release signed by Prince ‘Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Oyo State.
According to the statement, the Chairman of the Oyo State Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Akin Fagbemi, who led the relaunch on Friday, described the refurbished unit as a vital component of the state’s healthcare system, designed to cater to the unique needs of psychiatric patients in line with global best practices.
According to him, the reopening reflects the government’s prioritization of mental health and the need for accessible, specialized care for residents dealing with psychological and emotional challenges.
Dr. Fagbemi encouraged residents to be proactive about their mental well-being, stressing that early detection and intervention are key to managing mental health conditions. He further urged the public to take advantage of the upgraded facility, which remains the only dedicated psychiatric unit in a government hospital in Oyo State.
Echoing this stance, Dr. Shina Fakunle, Consultant Psychiatrist at the hospital, highlighted the growing importance of mental health in today’s society. He warned youths against the dangers of substance abuse, noting that a significant number of patients admitted to the unit are victims of drug addiction and other societal pressures.
In a related development, the Oyo State Hospitals Management Board has introduced newly designed aprons for apex nurses and scrubs for other categories of nurses across the state. The new uniforms are intended to boost identity, professionalism, and morale within the nursing cadre.
Dr. Fagbemi lauded Governor Seyi Makinde for his continuous interventions in the health sector, citing initiatives such as the recruitment of additional healthcare personnel, approval of uniform allowances for nurses, regular payment of salaries, and the 13th-month bonus for civil servants.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the board, Dr. Anifat Ibraheem, described the developments as a testament to the administration’s unwavering support for quality and accessible healthcare under the Omi-Tuntun 2.0 governance model.
The reopening of the psychiatric unit and the unveiling of new nurses’ attire mark another milestone in the state’s ongoing health sector reforms, aimed at ensuring improved healthcare delivery for all residents.