The Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, says it has recorded a staggering 100% surge in admissions of psychiatric patients in 2023.
This was disclosed during the institution’s annual scorecard presentation.
Dr. Olugebnga Owoeye, Chief Medical Director, made the announcement on Wednesday during the event themed: “A Day with the Medical Director,” noted that the overall number of new cases by 7%, with a 3% increase in both male and female follow-up patients.
Owoeye attributed the spike in admissions to the escalating mental health challenges facing the nation, exacerbated by prevailing economic difficulties and other socioeconomic issues.
During the presentation, Owoeye outlines various achievements, including the construction of the hospital’s administrative building in Yaba, improvements to internal roadways and drainage system in Yaba and Oshodi annexes, and the upgrading of the physiotherapy department.
He also mentioned ongoing projects such as the development of the telepsychiatry center and rehabilitation of the hospital wards in Yaba and Oshodi annexes.
Despite these accomplishments, Owoeye acknowledged significant challenges, citing a lack of funds and manpower as the primary issues facing the hospital in 2023.
He expressed concern over the departure of medical experts seeking better opportunities abroad, emphasizing the urgent need to address the resulting workforce shortage.
Looking ahead, Owoeye outlines plans for 2024, focusing on completing ongoing projects, enhancing staff training, and developing manpower, underscoring the importance of attending to the welfare of the workforce, with a commitment to prudent resource management.
In 2004, every effort will be made to ensure that all ongoing projects in the hospital are completed within the time frame.
With prudent management of the available resources, every effort will be made to attend to the welfare of the staff and he said: “That is what will be on the front burner of the management in 2024,” Owoeye affirmed.
