At the ninth International Research Conference of the [Federal Neuro- Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba](https://www.fnpyl.org) in Lagos, senior psychiatrists urged that Africa boost its own mental‑health research capacity and that Nigeria move its Mental Health Act from paper to practice, stressing that funding, institutional will and resources are vital to narrow the treatment gap.
**What is the current state of mental‑health research in Africa?**
Prof Taiwo Lateef Sheikh, a professor of psychiatry at [Ahmadu Bello University](https://www.abu.edu.ng), noted that the continent produces less than two per cent of the world’s mental‑health research output. He warned that this low contribution hampers the development of evidence‑based interventions tailored to African populations.
**Why is local research important?**
Sheikh called for increased investment in African‑led studies, arguing that research agendas must mirror the realities of local communities. He said, "Without data generated here, policies risk being disconnected from the lived experiences of our people."
**How does research link to clinical practice?**
Dr Olugbenga Owoeye, Medical Director of the Federal Neuro‑Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, stressed that robust research underpins better clinical care and service delivery. He highlighted the need to translate study findings into actionable guidelines that improve patient outcomes.
**What role should legislation play?**
Dr Tolu Ajomale emphasized that legal and policy frameworks, such as the [Mental Health Act](https://www.lawyard.com/nga/mental-health-act), must be paired with concrete institutional actions to ensure access to care. He warned that a law without implementation merely widens the gap between intent and reality.
**What broader reforms are required?**
Conference chair Prof Mashudat Bello‑Mojeed called for stronger research infrastructure and for evidence to shape reforms across Africa. She pointed out that addressing challenges in research development and building supportive systems are essential for meaningful progress in mental‑health care.
The panel of experts concluded that sustained investment, collaboration among governments, researchers and health facilities, and the use of locally generated evidence are critical to identify population needs, design appropriate interventions and strengthen Africa’s response to mental‑health challenges. They urged that the Mental Health Act and related commitments be operationalised to deliver tangible improvements in service access.
In summary, the conference highlighted three urgent priorities: expanding African‑centric mental‑health research, ensuring the Mental Health Act is actively implemented, and fostering partnerships that turn evidence into effective policy and practice.