The High Cost of Therapy: Why Millions of Nigerians Can’t Afford Mental Healthcare

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Many Nigerians know they or someone they care about needs help. But the next question is always “With whom and at what cost?” Despite a modern mental health law and growing public interest, care remains out of reach. Only two states have adopted key provisions, and the federal ministry has yet to set up a promised department. With fewer than 250 psychiatrists for 240 million people, public hospitals are overwhelmed. Private sessions in cities cost between ₦15,000 and ₦50,000, while online therapy runs ₦8,000 to ₦25,000 per visit. At half of the minimum wage per session and no insurance coverage, consistent treatment is simply unaffordable for most Nigerians. There are signs of progress: a proposed ₦4 billion mental health fund and plans to decriminalise suicide attempts. But stigma, spiritual beliefs and slow policy roll-out leave many suffering in silence. The debate on mental health has never been louder. Will the government act fast enough for those who can’t wait?

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