The Federal Government has commenced the process of decriminalising attempted suicide after the Federal Executive Council approved the position of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on the issue.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, made the disclosure in Abuja during the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day commemoration. He was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom.
Salako said the matter would now be transmitted to the National Assembly for the required legislative action. He described the proposed reform as both a legal and public health measure, stressing that individuals facing mental health crises need care and support rather than punishment.
“A person experiencing a mental health crisis should be met with care, support and appropriate intervention, rather than punishment. Removing the fear of criminal sanctions can help reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking and create greater opportunities for timely intervention,” he said.
The minister noted, however, that decriminalisation alone would not be enough to prevent suicide. He said the government would continue strengthening mental health services and expanding community-based support systems.
Salako added that priority would also be given to early identification and intervention, alongside efforts to promote more open discussions about mental health.
He cited the National Mental Health Act 2021, the National Mental Health Policy 2023, and the National Suicide Prevention Strategic Framework 2023–2030 as the key policy instruments guiding Nigeria’s response to suicide and mental health challenges.
According to him, the National Task Force on the Decriminalisation of Attempted Suicide had already consulted policymakers and other stakeholders as part of efforts to advance the reform.
On available data, the National Coordinator of the Mental Health Programme, Dr Tunde Ojo, acknowledged gaps in statistics on suicide and attempted suicide. He said the ministry was using surveys and other data-gathering methods to produce more accurate and verifiable national figures within the next year.
The National Coordinator of the National Action for Suicide Prevention, Dr Ade Bash, also reaffirmed plans to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare and strengthen community-based interventions.
Stakeholders at the event welcomed the Federal Government’s decision and pledged continued support for the legislative process as well as broader efforts to improve suicide prevention and mental healthcare in Nigeria.