The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved an amendment to the National Mental Health Act aimed at decriminalising attempted suicide in Nigeria.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate, disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing State House correspondents after the FEC meeting in Abuja.
Pate said the reform was part of efforts to reduce suicide deaths and attempts in the country by 15 per cent by 2030.
According to the minister, suicide remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria and across the world. He cited World Health Organisation data estimating that more than 7,000 Nigerians die by suicide annually, while about 300,000 suicide attempts are recorded each year.
He noted that the impact of suicide extends beyond those directly involved, affecting families, friends and communities, with more than 450,000 Nigerians requiring psychosocial support annually.
Pate added that suicide is globally the third leading cause of death among young people, underscoring the need for stronger mental health interventions and support systems.
