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The Suicide Research and Prevention Initiative of Nigeria (SURPIN) is poised to convene its annual conference in commemoration of World Suicide Prevention Day, placing Nigerian youths at the forefront of discussions on mental health on September 27, 2025.
The 2025 virtual conference, themed “Building Mental Resilience Amidst Socio-Economic Challenges in Nigeria,” will hold days after the global observance of September 10, in line with SURPIN’s tradition.
In her welcome address during a zoom conference, President of SURPIN, Dr. Arit Esangbedo, said this year’s edition is deliberately designed to give young people a platform. “We decided to give secondary school students and undergraduates the opportunity to be panelists and talk about the theme. Participants will cut across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones to share their experiences and discuss resilience in the face of social and economic challenges,” she explained.
Esangbedo, who is also a consultant Psychiatrist, stressed that the choice of young panelists reflects SURPIN’s growing emphasis on youth engagement, as they represent the majority of Nigeria’s population and remain among the most affected by unemployment, economic hardship, and mental health struggles.
Founder of SURPIN, Dr. Raphael Ogbolu, added that youth-centered programming has always been at the core of the organization’s work. “Since inception, the majority of callers to our crisis hotlines have been young people. Considering Nigeria’s youthful population, and that many are in the productive prime of their lives, socio-economic challenges will significantly impact them. It is important we engage young people early to create mental health awareness,” he said.
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He recalled that in past years, SURPIN’s initiatives involved research education, debates, drama, and creative video projects, all aimed at spreading awareness. What makes this year’s edition unique, he noted, is that young people are not only participants but also leaders of the dialogue. “We want them to tell us directly what they are going through, how they are coping, and the solutions they believe can work,” Ogbolu emphasized.
Distinguished guests such as former Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, and Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, will serve as special guests of honour during the conference.
According to Raphael, ” Over the years, SURPIN has partnered with schools, organizations, and professionals to widen its impact. It also incentivizes participation by offering financial support to schools with the highest number of attendees at its conferences.”
Esangbedo expressed optimism that this year’s youth-led engagement would strengthen suicide prevention across Nigeria. By empowering students and undergraduates to share their lived experiences and ideas, SURPIN aims to inspire resilience, amplify awareness, and build a mentally stronger generation.
At a time when socio-economic pressures weigh heavily on young Nigerians, the 2025 conference signals a critical shift, from merely talking to the youth, to truly listening to them.
