FG Moves to Decriminalise Attempted Suicide
The Federal Government has taken steps to decriminalise attempted suicide in Nigeria, following the approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s position on the matter.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, disclosed this in Abuja at the commemoration of the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day, held under the theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, the Minister said the matter would now proceed to the National Assembly for the necessary legislative process. He expressed optimism that the process would be concluded without delay.
Dr. Salako described the decriminalisation of attempted suicide as a public health and human rights imperative, stressing that people experiencing mental health crises should receive care, support and appropriate intervention rather than punishment.
He said removing the fear of criminal sanctions would help reduce stigma, encourage people in distress to seek help and create greater opportunities for timely intervention.
Earlier, the Director of Public Health, Dr. Charles Nzelu, represented by the National Coordinator of NASCP, Dr. Adebobola Bashorun, said the Ministry remained committed to providing strategic leadership and coordination for mental health promotion and suicide prevention.
He listed the Ministry’s priorities to include strengthening mental health services, integrating mental healthcare into primary healthcare, building the capacity of health workers, expanding community-based interventions and strengthening partnerships.
Dr. Nzelu also highlighted ongoing efforts towards the decriminalisation of attempted suicide, saying the National Task Force on Decriminalisation of Attempted Suicide had facilitated stakeholder engagements, evidence generation, policy dialogue, advocacy, sensitisation and public awareness.
He called on stakeholders to remain committed to changing the narrative on suicide and building a society where people experiencing mental health challenges can access timely care, support and hope.
The President of the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria, Dr. Oluyemisi Nyamali, meanwhile, warned that Nigeria’s mental health workforce remained inadequate due to brain drain.
She said decriminalisation would encourage people in distress to seek help without fear of prosecution, and urged the government to strengthen mental health services and ensure the availability of essential care across the country.
