NIGERIAN GOVERNMENT MOVES TO DECRIMINALISE ATTEMPTED SUICIDE

The Federal Government has taken steps towards decriminalising attempted suicide in Nigeria after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the position of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on the issue.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, IZIAQ SALAKO, disclosed this in Abuja at the commemoration of the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day.

SALAKO represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, DAJU KACHOLLOM said the proposal would now be forwarded to the National Assembly for the required legislative process, expressing optimism that it would be concluded promptly.

He said the proposed decriminalisation represented a legal reform as well as a public health and human rights necessity, adding that individuals experiencing mental health crises should be provided with care and appropriate support instead of being punished.

SALAKO also advocated continued investment in mental health services, early intervention, community support and public awareness, saying the removal of criminal penalties could help reduce stigma and encourage people experiencing crises to seek assistance in good time.