Nigerian comedian Emmanuel Ezeh, popularly known as MC2talk, has urged greater recognition of comedy and entertainment as tools for promoting emotional wellbeing, easing stress and strengthening social relationships.
Ezeh made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) ahead of the third edition of his comedy programme, *Laughter Ovasion 3*, scheduled for Nov. 15 in Lagos.
He said laughter could offer Nigerians some emotional relief as they navigate economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and the rising cost of living.
According to him, humour provides a common ground for people from different cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds to interact, connect and find moments of relief despite their individual challenges.
Ezeh, a Philosophy graduate of the University of Ibadan, acknowledged that comedy could not resolve the country’s structural problems but maintained that it could help people manage the emotional pressures associated with them.
“Can laughter play a role in helping us build a healthier, more united and more hopeful nation?
“Yes, but not because comedy can solve all our problems. 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 explained that comedy shows and other entertainment gatherings created opportunities for people to interact beyond their social, cultural and religious differences.
He said such experiences could encourage positive conversations, strengthen relationships and promote a sense of belonging within communities.
Ezeh also called for greater public attention to mental wellness, emotional balance, stress management and healthy social connections.
He argued that entertainment should not be viewed simply as an optional luxury but also as an activity capable of contributing to people’s quality of life.
“When people laugh, connect and spend time together in positive environments, communities become stronger. Relationships improve. Conversations begin. Hope is renewed,” he said.
He further urged stakeholders in the entertainment industry to recognise their broader social responsibility by using comedy and other creative platforms to promote healthy living, positive values, community engagement and national cohesion.
Ezeh called on relevant authorities to support comedy and other entertainment activities, noting that accessible recreational opportunities could contribute to social wellbeing and help people cope with stress.
He said *Laughter Ovasion 3* would provide an opportunity for participants to enjoy comedy, connect with others and leave with renewed optimism.
Meanwhile, research has continued to examine the relationship between laughter-based activities and psychological wellbeing.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal *BMC Psychology* in April 2026 examined 15 randomised controlled trials involving 1,344 adults. It found that laughter interventions were associated with reduced stress levels.
However, the researchers cautioned that differences among the studies and limitations in their quality meant the findings should be interpreted carefully. The evidence relates to structured laughter interventions and does not establish that attending a comedy show alone can treat stress-related conditions.
The findings nevertheless provide research context for the broader argument that laughter and positive social experiences can form part of efforts to support emotional wellbeing.
