A comedian, Emmanuel Ezeh, popularly known as MC2talk, has called for greater promotion of laughter and entertainment as tools to improve wellbeing, reduce stress, and strengthen national unity.
Ezeh, a Philosophy graduate of the University of Ibadan, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) ahead of his programme, Laughter Ovasion 3, scheduled for Nov. 15 in Lagos.
He said laughter remained an important coping mechanism for Nigerians amid economic challenges, insecurity, unemployment and rising living costs.
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According to him, humour continues to unite Nigerians across social, cultural and religious differences, providing opportunities for connection and renewed hope.
“Can laughter play a role in helping us build a healthier, more united and more hopeful nation?
“Yes,m. But not because comedy can solve all our problems. However, it can help us face them differently.
“A good joke cannot reduce the price of food. It cannot create jobs overnight.
“It cannot repair roads or build hospitals. But it can lighten a heavy heart, reduce tension and bring people together,” he said.
The comedian said comedy events often created an atmosphere where people from different backgrounds could connect, regardless of their differences.
He noted that such gatherings offered opportunities for people to share experiences, interact positively and develop stronger relationships.
Ezeh also advocated greater attention to mental wellness, emotional balance, stress management and social connections, noting that many Nigerians were burdened by personal and economic challenges.
He said entertainment should not be regarded as a luxury but as an important component of a healthy society.
“When people laugh, connect and spend time together in positive environments, communities become stronger. Relationships improve. Conversations begin. Hope is renewed,” he said.
Ezeh said the entertainment industry had a responsibility beyond providing amusement, adding that it could also promote healthy living, positive values, community engagement and national unity.
He called on relevant authorities to support and promote comedy and other entertainment activities, saying increased access to laughter could contribute to improved wellbeing and potentially reduce stress-related health risks.
He said his upcoming programme would provide an opportunity for Nigerians to experience laughter, connection and renewed optimism.
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