By Cross Udo, Abuja
The Zuma Deck of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) has taken its mental health advocacy campaign to General Hospital, Kubwa, as part of activities marking the 2026 World Mental Health Day.
The annual event, observed on October 10, was used by members of the association, also known as Pyrates Confraternity, to sensitise residents and hospital patients on mental health awareness, treatment and the dangers of stigmatising people living with mental illness.
The commemoration began with a mental health walk from the association’s Anchor Point on Gado Nasko Road, Kubwa, to the General Hospital, Kubwa.
During the walk, members of the Deck, which is one of the Abuja chapters of NAS, engaged residents on the need to seek professional counselling, support people experiencing mental health challenges and avoid stigmatisation.
At the hospital, a medical practitioner, Dr Patrick Uju, addressed patients in the male ward of the Accident and Emergency Unit and the male surgical ward.
Uju urged the patients to remain mentally strong while undergoing treatment and encouraged them to speak openly about anxiety and emotional distress rather than keeping such concerns to themselves.
“I know that most of you here did not wish to be stuck here in the hospital ward instead of being at your work places, business places or with your families, but true healing starts with the conviction that this too shall pass away,” he said.
He encouraged the patients to discuss their feelings with medical professionals, family members and loved ones, while maintaining faith in their belief systems during recovery.
Speaking on behalf of the Deck Capn, the 2nd Mate and Director of Programmes, Ndukwe Charles Ndukwe, advised medical workers and patients to balance work and treatment with adequate rest and recreational activities.
He also called for early counselling and screening for mental health concerns and urged the public to encourage care and treatment for people living with mental illness.
“Today’s event aligns with NAS humanistic ideals as an Association focused on humanitarian and advocacy projects,” Ndukwe said.
