For the past eight years, the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) has been steadfast in addressing trauma across the nation, a country grappling with conflicts, economic instability, insurgency, kidnappings, and natural disasters.
Since 2016, BSN has spearheaded trauma management initiatives, reaching over three million people across 13 states and equipping individuals with the tools for emotional, psychological, and spiritual healing.
Integrating Biblical Principles with Mental Health Practices
BSN has implemented various trauma healing programs that blend biblical teachings with mental health practices.
These initiatives include workshops and training sessions designed for religious leaders, community workers, and other key stakeholders, fostering a holistic approach to healing.
International Conference on Trauma Healing
To further its commitment to trauma recovery, BSN recently hosted an international community of practice conference in Lagos.
The conference brought together representatives from 15 countries across Africa and the United States. Themed “Trauma Healing in a World of Uncertainty: Navigating Global Crises and Building Resilience.”
The event convened trauma healing practitioners, mental health professionals, religious leaders, and community workers to address the far-reaching effects of trauma amid global crises such as conflicts, natural disasters, and economic instability.
Insights from Key Speakers
Pastor Samuel Sanusi, General Secretary/CEO, BSN
Welcoming delegates, Pastor Sanusi emphasized that trauma impedes meaningful engagement with Scripture, isolating individuals and communities while leaving victims with unanswered questions.
Sanusi stressed the importance of collaboration, sharing knowledge, and building a support network that spans across disciplines and regions.
Dr. Yetunde Fasakin, Consultant Psychiatrist, Amazing Healthcare Clinic
Dr. Fasakin highlighted the increasing prevalence of armed conflicts, civil wars, and ethnic violence, which lead to severe consequences such as high mortality rates and mass displacement.
She noted that these crises often result in psychological trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and social disintegration, hindering recovery and perpetuating cycles of poverty and violence.
Dr. Chima Okoro, Lecturer, University of Lagos
Dr. Okoro addressed the psychological impact of climate change, citing studies that link rising temperatures to increased aggression and suicide rates.
He advocated for proactive climate change mitigation strategies, including emissions reduction, energy efficiency, and sustainable infrastructure development to minimize trauma-inducing environmental challenges.
Dr. Dare Ajiboye, Life Coach and Former General Secretary, BSN
Dr. Ajiboye traced trauma’s origins to biblical narratives, citing Adam and Eve’s fall, Samson’s betrayal, Elijah’s threats from Jezebel, and Job’s profound losses.
He proposed three strategies for managing trauma:
Coping strategies: Identifying and avoiding trauma triggers
Curative strategies: Addressing the root causes of trauma rather than just the symptoms
Preventive strategies: Taking proactive measures to minimize trauma-inducing situations
A Global Movement for Trauma Healing
Frederick Barasa, a representative of The American Bible Society, highlighted the global impact of trauma healing efforts.
Barasa noted that over 117 countries are actively engaged in trauma recovery.
The Trauma Healing Institute, he explained, equips churches with resources that integrate biblical and psychological approaches to address grief, loss, and emotional wounds.
Strengthening the Future of Trauma Healing
The two-day event also featured panel discussions and reports from different Bible Societies across Africa, fostering collaboration and the exchange of best practices.
Through these efforts, BSN continues to lead the way in trauma healing, ensuring that individuals and communities can find hope, resilience, and restoration in the face of adversity.
