The pain, exhaustion, and frustration of the Igbo community resonate deeply within me. As a psychiatric social worker, I witness firsthand the trauma that has accumulated over decades due to political failures, pervasive poverty, identity conflicts, and the spread of misinformation. Let me be clear: Self-determination is not a crime. Every community has the inherent right to express its identity, protect its dignity, and pursue development. This is a fundamental human aspiration. The atrocities of kidnapping, killings, mutilations, and trafficking in Nigeria are condemnable; they are criminal behaviors. The mental health impact of this crisis is very real and alarming. Growing up in an environment filled with fear normalizes violence, creating a generation trapped in survival mode instead of one that can thrive and grow. This is the true danger for Nigerians presently. 
CALABAR, CROSS RIVER, NIGERIA - 2019/11/22: Elderly man sitting at the door of his house, a semi-ruined colonial building in the city of Calabar. (Photo by Jorge Fernández/LightRocket via Getty Images) equal rights, fairness, equity and justice. Anyi toro ato.
Acknowledgment Matters
I want to extend my gratitude to the U.S. government and President Trump for recognizing the targeted violence against Christians in Nigeria. Such acknowledgment validates the experiences of victims and sends a message that the world is paying attention. However, recognition alone is insufficient. We require:- Strengthened intelligence cooperation to pinpoint violent groups and their financiers.
- Technical support to dismantle criminal networks while safeguarding civilian lives.
- Rehabilitation programs aimed at helping traumatized communities and children.
CALABAR, CROSS RIVER, NIGERIA - 2019/11/22: Elderly man sitting at the door of his house, a semi-ruined colonial building in the city of Calabar. (Photo by Jorge Fernández/LightRocket via Getty Images) equal rights, fairness, equity and justice. Anyi toro ato. 
