By Ononye VC
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to decriminalize attempted suicide by December 2025, marking a significant shift in approach from punishment to a health-focused and compassionate response.
This move aims to address the growing concern of suicide in Nigeria, where an estimated 15,000 people die annually, and many more attempt to take their own lives.
A National Taskforce on the Decriminalisation of Attempted Suicide was inaugurated on October 10, 2024, chaired by Prof. Cheluchi Onyemelukwe, to guide the transition from punitive measures to a health-centered approach.
A government white paper has been finalized, and a draft amendment to the National Mental Health Act 2021, now known as the National Mental Health Act Amendment Bill 2025, has been prepared to strike out punitive provisions in the criminal code.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, will present a memo to the Federal Executive Council for an Executive Bill on Decriminalisation of Attempted Suicide.
Decriminalizing attempted suicide .aims to reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking behavior, and ensure survivors can access timely interventions without fear of prosecution.
The reform aligns with international best practices, where suicide is treated as a public health issue rather than a crime.
Organizations like the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) have expressed support for the reform, highlighting the need for collective action to address mental health challenges.
The government and stakeholders are working together to raise awareness and promote a more compassionate response to mental health emergencies.
