The Nigerian Government has begun moves to decriminalise attempted suicide after the Federal Executive Council approved the position of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on the matter.
The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, disclosed this in Abuja on Friday during the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day commemoration. Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, he said the proposal would be sent to the National Assembly for legislative action.
Salako described the reform as a public health measure, saying people experiencing mental health crises needed care and support rather than punishment. He said the government would also focus on early intervention and promote open discussions on mental health.
Meanwhile, Mental Health Programme Coordinator, Dr. Tunde Ojo, said gaps remained in national suicide data, but the ministry was working to improve statistics within the next year.
National Action for Suicide Prevention Coordinator, Dr. Ade Bash, said the government would strengthen mental health services at primary healthcare and community levels.
Stakeholders welcomed the move and pledged support for the legislative process.
