For the past eight years, the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) has remained committed to addressing trauma in a nation grappling with conflict, economic instability, insurgency, kidnappings, and natural disasters.
BSN ramped up its trauma healing mission, reaching millions with faith-based solutions, and recently hosted a global conference in Lagos to unite experts in tackling the widespread effects of crises.
Since 2016, the organization has spearheaded trauma management initiatives, reaching over three million people across 13 states. These initiatives combine biblical teachings with mental health practices to provide emotional, psychological, and spiritual healing.
At the conference in Lagos themed “Trauma Healing in a World of Uncertainty: Navigating Global Crises and Building Resilience,” BSN brought together representatives from 15 countries across Africa and the United States.
The two-day conference convened trauma healing practitioners, mental health professionals, religious leaders, and community workers to address the effects of global crises, including conflicts, natural disasters, and economic hardships.
Speaking at the event, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, General Secretary/CEO of BSN, emphasized that trauma affects individuals’ ability to engage meaningfully with Scripture. He stressed the need for collaboration across disciplines to create a robust support network for trauma victims.
Dr. Yetunde Fasakin, a Consultant Psychiatrist at Amazing Healthcare Clinic, highlighted the rising cases of armed conflicts, ethnic violence, and civil unrest, which have led to mass displacement, PTSD, depression, and social disintegration. She called for integrated mental health interventions to mitigate these effects.
On the environmental front, Dr. Chima Okoro, a Lecturer at the University of Lagos, discussed the psychological toll of climate change. He linked rising temperatures to increased aggression and suicide rates, advocating for proactive mitigation strategies such as emissions reduction and sustainable infrastructure development.
Dr. Dare Ajiboye, a Life Coach and former General Secretary of BSN, explored trauma from a biblical perspective, citing the experiences of Adam and Eve, Samson, Elijah, and Job. He proposed three key strategies for trauma management: Coping strategies – Identifying and avoiding trauma triggers; Curative strategies – Addressing root causes rather than just symptoms; and Preventive strategies – Taking proactive measures to minimize trauma-inducing situations
Frederick Barasa, a representative of the American Bible Society, underscored the global impact of trauma recovery initiatives. He noted that over 117 countries are actively engaged in trauma healing efforts, with the Trauma Healing Institute equipping churches with resources that blend biblical and psychological approaches to grief, loss, and emotional recovery.
The conference also featured panel discussions and reports from different Bible Societies across Africa, fostering collaboration and the exchange of best practices.
Through these sustained efforts, BSN continues to champion trauma healing in Nigeria, offering hope and resilience to individuals and communities navigating adversity.