The Federal Government of Nigeria is taking steps to decriminalize attempted suicide, aligning with global efforts to address mental health issues. Prof. Muhammed Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, made this known during a news conference in Abuja on Thursday to mark the 2024 World Suicide Prevention Day. The theme for the event is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”
Currently, suicide is a criminal offense in Nigeria, under Section 327 of the Criminal Code Act, which states, “Any person who attempts to kill himself is guilty of a misdemeanour and is liable to imprisonment for one year.” However, there has been growing pressure from stakeholders to decriminalize the act.
Prof. Pate revealed that the Ministry of Health has launched the National Suicide Strategic Framework (2023–2030) to enhance mental health services and support suicide prevention. The framework identifies risk factors, protective measures, strategic objectives, and interventions for suicide prevention, adhering to international standards.
Speaking on the issue, Pate, represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, shared that Nigeria’s suicide rate stands at 12.9 per 100,000 people, with the highest incidence among youth aged 15 to 29. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in this age group in Africa, accounting for 40 percent of suicide deaths.
Pate acknowledged that cultural stigma and barriers around mental health make accurate reporting difficult. He also highlighted the strong link between suicide, mental health conditions like depression, and alcohol use disorders. Many suicides occur during moments of crisis, triggered by stressors such as financial problems, relationship breakdowns, chronic pain, and illness.
The minister emphasized the 2024 observance’s focus on raising awareness, reducing stigma, and fostering open conversations to prevent suicide. “Changing the narrative means shifting our focus from the tragedy of suicide to prevention,” he said, calling for an end to taboos, stigma, and discrimination around mental health.
In closing, Pate urged collective responsibility in suicide prevention, emphasizing the importance of building a society that supports mental health and well-being, while providing care for those in need. He stated, “Suicide prevention is our collective responsibility, and we must all be committed to building a society that values mental health, promotes well-being, and provides care for everyone.”
