Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced significant progress on the Lagos State Mental Institute, a pioneering facility under construction in Ketu-Ejirin, Epe, which is set to open by 2025. Once completed, the facility will become the largest psychiatric and rehabilitation center in sub-Saharan Africa, featuring a 500-bed capacity, and demonstrating the state’s commitment to comprehensive healthcare delivery.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, accompanied by Health Commissioner Akin Abayomi and Special Adviser for Works Adekunle Olayinka, provided details on the project’s innovative approach. He revealed that the project is being developed in phases, with Phase I already 50% complete. This phase includes a 500-bed facility with consultation rooms, dormitories, dining halls, kitchens, staff quarters, and recreational spaces, all spread across a serene 25-hectare site.
“This will be a comprehensive psychiatric centre, providing patients with psychotherapy and psycho-rehabilitation in a first-class environment,” Governor Sanwo-Olu explained. The facility is designed as a bungalow complex to meet the specific needs of mental health patients, and this architectural choice adheres to international best practices for psychiatric rehabilitation centres.
The Governor noted that once operational, the institute will set a new standard for mental healthcare in the region. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made by the contractors, Messrs Formwork Limited, and confirmed that all structures for the first phase are in place, with landscaping and equipment installation to begin soon.
Phase II of the project will expand the institute’s capacity further, adding more accommodations and rehabilitation centers. Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of mental health in the state’s healthcare agenda, stating, “Mental health challenges deserve top-tier solutions, and we are committed to making this facility a model of excellence.”
The Governor also commended the collaborative efforts of the Ministries of Health and Works, the contractors, and members of the Lagos State Executive Council for their contributions to the project. He thanked journalists for their participation in the site visit and expressed appreciation for the collective effort in bringing the project to its current stage.
