The Federal Government is taking steps to decriminalize attempted suicide in Nigeria, according to Prof. Muhammed Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare.
This was announced during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday to mark the upcoming 2024 World Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on September 10.
Currently, suicide is a criminal offense under Section 327 of the Criminal Code Act, which states that anyone who attempts suicide is guilty of a misdemeanor and can face up to one year in prison.
However, there have been growing calls to decriminalize suicide, recognizing it as a mental health issue rather than a criminal act.
To support this shift, the ministry has introduced the National Suicide Strategic Framework (2023-2030), aimed at improving mental health and suicide prevention efforts.
Prof. Pate, represented by Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom, said the framework highlights risk factors and outlines strategic objectives and interventions in line with global best practices.
He also noted that Nigeria’s suicide rate stands at 12.9 per 100,000 people, with a particularly high prevalence among those aged 15 to 29, making it the fourth leading cause of death in that age group across Africa.
Despite these alarming figures, the stigma and lack of mental health awareness continue to hinder accurate reporting.
Pate emphasized the link between suicide and mental health conditions like depression and alcohol use disorders. He also pointed out that many suicides occur impulsively during moments of crisis, such as financial stress, relationship breakups, and chronic illness.
The 2024 World Suicide Prevention Day theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” focuses on reducing stigma, promoting empathy, and encouraging open conversations.
The minister urged collective responsibility in building a society that prioritizes mental health, supports well-being, and cares for individuals struggling with mental health issues.
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