A New Initiative for Men’s Mental Health in Nigeria and Africa
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), in partnership with Diatom Impact and the Asido Foundation, has launched a groundbreaking mental health initiative called the “Men Stay Alive Project.” This project aims to address the rising rates of suicide and emotional distress among men across Nigeria and the broader African continent.
The initiative was officially announced through a statement released on Monday. The First Vice President of NMA, Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, signed the statement, highlighting the urgent need to create a safe space for men to express their struggles and access professional mental health support.
According to Olowojebutu, the project is designed to provide men with not only emotional support but also practical assistance when needed. He emphasized that men often face unique challenges, including societal expectations to remain stoic, which can lead to silent suffering and, in some cases, tragic outcomes.
A Growing Concern
Olowojebutu pointed out that global and local statistics reveal that men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide than women. This alarming trend, he said, reflects a cultural norm that pressures men to suppress their emotions and maintain an image of strength.
He stated, “Across Africa, men are breaking—quietly, painfully, and far too often, fatally. In a world that expects them to always be strong as fathers, husbands, and providers, many men are silently battling the crushing weight of failure, betrayal, loss, and financial pressure.”
To combat this, the Men Stay Alive Project will offer various resources and platforms for men to engage with mental health professionals and share their stories.
Key Components of the Initiative
One of the core elements of the project is the quarterly “Men Stay Alive” podcast. This platform will allow men to openly discuss their experiences, healing journeys, and recovery processes. The podcast aims to foster honest and raw conversations about the challenges men face and how they can navigate emotional and mental storms.
Another vital component is the dedicated mental health hotline. This service will connect callers with psychiatrists, counsellors, and other mental health professionals. Additionally, it will provide emergency financial assistance, such as school fees or debt relief, under structured repayment plans. Olowojebutu noted that “sometimes saving a life begins with a single call and a willingness to listen.”
The project is being implemented under Diatom Impact’s “quality of life” pillar, which focuses on nurturing mental, emotional, and community wellbeing. Olowojebutu explained that the initiative seeks to encourage men to embrace vulnerability and seek healing.
A Personal Touch
The Men Stay Alive podcast will feature guest speakers who bring personal insight and experience to the conversation. The premiere episode is scheduled to air on November 16, 2025, with veteran broadcaster Mr. Soni Irabor as the first guest. Olowojebutu expressed his honor in having Irabor on board, stating that his experience and compassion will help deepen the conversation about men’s health and emotional resilience.
The initiative was inspired by the personal experiences of Diatom Impact founder, Dr. Akintoye Akindele. His story of betrayal, loss, and despair serves as a powerful motivation for the project. Akindele chose to share his story “raw, unfiltered, and brave” to encourage others to embrace vulnerability and seek healing.
Honoring Legacy and Memory
Reflecting on his own life, Akindele paid tribute to his late father, a retired Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria, who passed away peacefully at 96 after a lifetime of service. He shared that his father’s lessons guided him in making a positive impact on others.
Akindele also dedicated the Men Stay Alive Project to the memory of his late friend, Akin Shuga, whom he described as a brother and confidant. He shared a heartfelt message about their last conversation before Shuga’s planned travel to Canada, expressing his deep connection to his friend even after his passing.
A Call to Action
Olowojebutu expressed optimism that the project would help men rediscover purpose and dignity in life, even amid challenges. He urged men across Nigeria to take advantage of the platform once it goes live, emphasizing that silence has become one of the biggest killers of men.
“No wife should become a widow, no child an orphan, and no man should suffer in silence,” the statement concluded.
The first episode of the Men Stay Alive podcast is expected to be available on major media and streaming platforms later this month. Organizers are intensifying efforts to promote awareness and build a community of hope and healing for men.