Nigeria Moves to Decriminalise Attempted Suicide as FG Seeks More Compassionate Mental Health Response
The Federal Government has taken steps towards decriminalising attempted suicide in Nigeria, following the approval of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for a legislative review of the existing legal framework.
The move is aimed at treating attempted suicide primarily as a mental health and public health concern rather than a criminal offence.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, disclosed the development in Abuja during activities marking World Suicide Prevention Day.
Speaking through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom S., the minister said the legislative framework supporting the proposed change had been transmitted to the National Assembly for statutory review and possible enactment.
According to Salako, the policy shift is considered necessary because criminalising people who attempt suicide could discourage them from seeking medical and psychological assistance at a time when they may be experiencing severe emotional or mental distress.
“A person experiencing a mental health crisis should be met with care, support and appropriate intervention, rather than punishment,” the minister said.
He explained that removing the fear of criminal sanctions could help reduce the stigma associated with suicide attempts and encourage people experiencing mental health crises to seek professional help.
Salako further noted that decriminalisation alone would not address the broader challenges surrounding suicide and mental health in the country.
He said the government must continue investing in mental healthcare infrastructure, improving access to quality services and strengthening community-based support systems.
The minister also called for greater awareness, early identification of people experiencing mental health difficulties and timely intervention before crises escalate.
He stressed the importance of supporting people with lived experience while encouraging communities to have more open and compassionate conversations about mental health and suicide.
“We must continue to strengthen mental health services, expand access to quality care, promote early identification and intervention, support persons with lived experience, empower communities and foster open conversations that replace fear and discrimination with empathy and hope,” he added.
Global Mirror News reports that the proposed legislative change, if enacted by the National Assembly, would represent a significant shift in Nigeria’s approach to people who survive suicide attempts, moving the emphasis from criminal sanctions towards medical care, psychological support and prevention.
The development also comes amid growing calls for improved mental health services and greater public understanding of suicide as a complex issue that requires compassion, professional intervention and sustained support.
Mental health professionals and members of the public are expected to closely follow the legislative process as the proposal moves through the National Assembly.
