Across Nigeria, many children under the age of fifteen quietly navigate mental health challenges that remain unspoken and often misunderstood. Feelings of sadness, anxiety, or withdrawal are dismissed as passing phases, leaving young people without the words or confidence to make sense of their experiences. This silence creates a gap—not only in awareness but also in the ability of families, schools, and communities to recognize when a child is in need of help.
To bridge this gap, the Asido Foundation introduced a unique and engaging initiative: a mental health–themed online video competition. Designed for children between the ages of eight and fourteen, the challenge gives participants the opportunity to use creativity and storytelling to speak about mental health in their own words. Through short videos, children educate their peers, spark conversations, and transform their voices into tools of awareness and advocacy. This early exposure nurtures understanding, encourages openness, and helps dismantle the stigma that keeps mental health hidden in Nigerian society.
Over the course of six editions, more than three hundred and sixty children have taken part in the challenge. Each year has brought remarkable stories of courage and creativity, from the winners of the third edition in 2022 to the inspiring voices of the fifth and sixth editions. Together, these young storytellers are shaping a culture where mental health is no longer something to whisper about, but something to learn, share, and normalize.
The call now is for parents, educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to join in strengthening this movement. By supporting the video challenge, we can foster a generation of children who are digitally proficient, mentally aware, resilient, and unafraid to speak up. Every child deserves the knowledge and support they need to thrive—today and for the future. To connect with us, reach out via email at asidofoundation@gmail.com or on WhatsApp at 0818 077 7458.