The Federal Government has commenced moves to decriminalise attempted suicide in Nigeria following the approval of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
The decision follows the adoption of 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 during the commemoration of the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day.
Salako, who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom S., said the proposal would now be forwarded to the National Assembly for the necessary legislative process.
He expressed optimism that the legislative process would be completed promptly.
According to him, the decriminalisation of attempted suicide is not only a legal reform but also a public health and human rights imperative.
The minister further stated that people experiencing mental health crises should receive care, support and appropriate intervention rather than punishment.
“A person experiencing a mental health crisis should be met with care, support and appropriate intervention, rather than punishment.
“Removing the fear of criminal sanctions can help reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking and create greater opportunities for timely intervention,” he said.
Salako stressed that law alone would not prevent suicide, emphasising the need for sustained investment in mental health services, early identification and intervention, community support and public awareness.
“We must continue to strengthen mental health services, expand access to quality care, promote early identification and intervention, support persons with lived experience, empower communities and foster open conversations that replace fear and discrimination with empathy and hope,” he added.