On July 12, 2025, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, restated the Federal Government’s strong commitment to the welfare and mental health of Nigerian troops. This was during a visit by mental health experts from the United States Africa Command (US AFRICOM) in Abuja.
The visit focused on how to improve mental health care for Nigerian soldiers a step that many experts see as long overdue.
Why Soldiers’ Mental Health Must Be a Priority
Soldiers face danger, trauma, and stress in the line of duty. Many of them go through emotional pain after returning from difficult missions. Because of this, mental health care is just as important as treating physical wounds.
Minister Matawalle made this very clear when he said:
“A healthy soldier is a combat-ready soldier. Mental resilience is essential to handle the stress and pressure of modern military life.”
He added that when soldiers are mentally fit, they can serve better and protect the country more effectively.
The Role of the US AFRICOM Team
The US AFRICOM delegation was led by Mrs Helina Meri, who serves as the Country Director at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) a well-known US military research institution. The visit was focused on mental health support, post-trauma care, and partnership opportunities.
Other key members of the team included Dr Yakubu Adamu and LTC Corey Carnes, who both have experience in trauma healing and military healthcare. They engaged with Nigerian defence officials on how both countries can work together to improve the mental well-being of troops.
Spotlight on MOD-HIP: Healthcare for Nigerian Soldiers
A major discussion point was the Ministry of Defence Health Insurance Programme (MOD-HIP) — a program aimed at giving full healthcare coverage to active duty soldiers and their families. The plan includes not only physical treatment but also mental health services, which many military families often lack.
Minister Matawalle urged the visiting experts to also visit the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna. This hospital is one of the most advanced army hospitals in the country, and serves as a key centre for mental health and trauma recovery.
A Real Commitment from the Federal Government
According to Matawalle, this collaboration shows that the Nigerian government is now ready to take the mental health of its troops seriously. He made it clear that this is not just talk, but a real commitment backed by action.
“We want our armed forces to be fit in both body and mind. Mental strength is needed for service in today’s world.”
This statement shows that mental health is no longer being ignored. It is now being treated as a national defence priority.
Why This Move Matters to Nigerians
In Nigeria, many people still see mental health as a taboo. This makes it hard for soldiers and their families to seek help when they need it.
But soldiers face unique mental health issues like:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Sleep disorders
- Depression or emotional numbness
If left untreated, these problems can lead to breakdowns, violence, addiction, or even suicide. That is why the government’s move to openly address mental health is a welcome change.
With the MOD-HIP program and international collaboration, soldiers will now have easier access to counselling, psychological therapy, and trauma recovery all of which can improve their service, family life, and future reintegration into society.
What Nigerians Should Expect Next
The collaboration between the Nigerian military and US AFRICOM experts is just the beginning. In the coming months, Nigerians can expect:
- Training programs for military doctors and nurses in mental health
- Upgrades to military hospitals like the one in Kaduna
- Access to better drugs and treatment tools for mental health issues
- Public awareness campaigns to reduce the stigma of mental illness in the armed forces
These efforts are not only for soldiers in battle but also for veterans, widows, and children of fallen heroes.
A Strong Message from Defence Leadership
This visit, and the statements made during it, send a strong message: Nigerian soldiers matter. Their mental health and total welfare are no longer being overlooked. With the backing of global experts and national leadership, Nigerian troops now have a better chance at healing and performing at their best.
As Minister Matawalle rightly said,
“Mental health is no longer optional. It is essential for national security.”
What You Can Do
Mental health is everyone’s concern. As Nigerians, we must:
- Show respect and support to military families
- Talk openly about mental health issues
- Encourage soldiers to seek help when needed
- Support government efforts to build better military hospitals
When our troops are strong in mind and body, our country becomes safer for all.
The visit by US AFRICOM and the Defence Minister’s commitment is a turning point in Nigerian military healthcare. It proves that the Federal Government is taking serious steps to protect those who protect us.
With programs like MOD-HIP and partnerships with mental health experts, Nigeria is building a military that is not only strong in combat but also strong in spirit.
Let us continue to support and speak up for the mental wellbeing of Nigerian soldiers they deserve nothing less.
Key Points at a Glance:
- Nigeria partners with US AFRICOM to improve soldiers’ mental health
- MOD-HIP will now cover mental health treatment
- Mental fitness is now a priority in military service
- The 44 Army Hospital Kaduna will lead trauma recovery plans
- Public support is needed to reduce mental health stigma