The Federal Government is working to decriminalize attempted suicide, according to Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Pate.
He made this announcement on Thursday in Abuja during a news conference for the 2024 World Suicide Prevention Day, held annually on September 10 with the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”
In Nigeria, suicide is currently criminalized under Section 327 of the Criminal Code Act, carrying a one-year imprisonment penalty. Despite this, stakeholders have called for decriminalization.
In response, the ministry launched the National Suicide Strategic Framework (2023-2030) to enhance mental health and prevent suicide, Pate explained through Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom.
“The document clearly identifies the risk and protective factors associated with suicide in the country.
“It also identifies the strategic objectives, interventions, and indicators for suicide prevention, in line with international best practices.
“One of the key policy actions in this document is the decriminalisation of attempted suicide.
“Instead of punishment and ostracism, we must extend helping hands and support, rather than sensationalising reportage.
“I am pleased to inform you that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is working closely with the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and partners to address the section of the law that criminalises attempted suicide.
“Nigeria will soon join the committee of nations that have decriminalised attempted suicide.
The Minister revealed that Nigeria’s suicide rate stands at 12.9 per 100,000, a concerning figure.
He further noted that young people aged 15 to 29 years are disproportionately affected, with suicide being the fourth leading cause of death in this age group in Africa, accounting for 40% of all suicide deaths.
However, the Minister cautioned that these statistics may not accurately reflect the true prevalence of suicide in Africa due to significant barriers to reporting, including stigma surrounding mental health issues.
He emphasized the strong link between suicide and mental health conditions, citing depression and alcohol use disorders as established factors.
Many suicides, he noted, occur impulsively during moments of crisis, triggered by various life stresses such as financial difficulties, relationship problems, breakups, chronic pain, and illness.
The Minister concluded by highlighting the theme of the 2024 Global Observance Day, which focuses on raising awareness about reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicide.
The minister stated, “Changing the narrative means shifting our focus from the tragedy of suicide to prevention.
“It means moving away from taboos, stigma, and discrimination, towards empathy and positive cultural change.
“As we stand united, we acknowledge the pain and suffering of those who have lost loved ones to suicide, and we affirm our commitment to creating a society that supports and cares for those struggling with mental health issues.
“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.”
The World Health Organization’s Country Representative, Dr. Walter Mulombo, emphasized that suicide attempts far outnumber reported cases, with approximately 20 attempts for every recorded suicide, and many more experiencing serious suicidal thoughts.
Mulombo, represented by Mary Bantuo, stressed that changing the narrative around suicide requires shifting from stigma and silence to openness, understanding, and support.
He said, “This call to action encourages everyone to start the conversation on suicide and suicide prevention.
“Every conversation, no matter how small, contributes to understanding society. By initiating vital conversations, we can break barriers, raise awareness, and create better content and support.”
He further emphasized the need to prioritise suicide prevention and mental health in policymaking.
Mulombo Urged for government action, highlighting that changing the narrative requires advocating for policies that prioritise mental health, increase access to care, and provide support for those in need.
