Sanwo-Olu Pledges Support for Unforsaken House of Hephzibah’s Psychological Services

Bennett Oghifo

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has promised to collaborate with Unforsaken House of Hephzibah, an organisation dedicated to providing psychological services, in order to expand access to mental healthcare for individuals in need across the state.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the promise at the Grand Opening of The Unforsaken House of Hephzibah Wellness Clinic, in Lekki, according to a statement issued by the Head, Public Affairs Unit, HEFAMMA, Mrs. Rahmat Alabi.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, Sanwo-Olu stated that the establishment of the Centre aligns with his administration’s vision to promote the overall well-being of its citizens.

The governor lauded the Director of Unforsaken House of Hephzibah, Dr. Busola Olamuyiwa, for her efforts in positively impacting the mental health of many, particularly in supporting those who have endured trauma, abuse, and other difficult life circumstances.
He stated that his THEMESPLUS policies  acknowledges the importance of psychological services in addressing the mental health needs of its population, noting that mental health is crucial to fostering a resilient and productive society.

He noted that the wellness Centre will be assisted to expand its services, reach more individuals in need, and engage with more professionals across the psychological and social work fields.
Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, said the ministry aims to set a precedent for how government agencies and non-profit organisations can collaborate to address the mental health crisis in Nigeria, making Lagos a model for mental health support in the nation.
The commissioner, who spoke through the Head of Special Projects and Mental Health in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Tolu Ajomale, noted that people are gradually becoming more aware of the need and importance of therapy and mental health as against what obtains in the past.

He urged those still living in denial or secrecy to come out from their hiding places to seek help, “please seek help so you can remain healthy rather than shying away from professional assistance.”

Dr. Busola Olamuyiwa, Director of The Unforsaken House of Hephzibah, informed that the clinic aims to address the multifaceted nature of health challenges, creating a sanctuary for holistic healing.

She explained that the clinic aims to be a sanctuary for those seeking holistic healing, emphasising her belief that “every individual deserves access to compassionate, personalised care.”

Dr. Olamuyiwa shared her vision for the clinic, emphasising its role as a safe, compassionate space designed to meet the needs of individuals facing mental health challenges and seeking wellness across all aspects of life.

“This clinic is more than just a professional goal for me; it’s a calling,” she said. “Here, we embrace the full spectrum of wellness, understanding that true health involves the mind, body, and spirit in harmony.”

“Over the years, I have seen how deeply mental health impacts all areas of life and this explains why  I kept on working tirelessly to ensure that The Unforsaken House of Hephzibah Wellness Clinic meets the growing need for compassionate, accessible care.

“My mission is to make wellness a community-supported endeavor, providing clients with personalized treatment that fosters long-term healing and growth.

“With a strong foundation in both professional expertise and heartfelt commitment, The Unforsaken House of Hephzibah Wellness Clinic promises to be a pillar in the community for holistic health care, setting a new standard for wellness in Lagos,” she added.

She praised her team’s dedication, attributing the clinic’s opening to their commitment and shared vision. As the doors open, the clinic welcomes clients, family, friends, and community members to join in the journey of healing, resilience, and hope.

The Director of the Centre, expressed the readiness of the center to collaborate with the Lagos State Ministry of Health in every way possible, emphasising that with the government’s support, the Centre could scale up its services to address the rising demand for mental health support.