The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has announced the federal government’s commitment to decriminalizing attempted suicide in Nigeria. This was disclosed during a media conference in Abuja on Thursday, held in observance of the 2024 World Suicide Prevention Day, themed “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”
Speaking through the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, Pate highlighted the launch of the National Suicide Strategic Framework (2023-2030), aimed at improving mental health support and preventing suicide.
“The document clearly identifies the risk and protective factors associated with suicide in Nigeria, as well as strategic objectives, interventions, and indicators for suicide prevention, aligned with international best practices,” the minister said.
One of the key initiatives in the framework is the decriminalization of attempted suicide. Pate emphasized the need for compassion and support instead of punishment and stigmatization, stating, “Instead of punishment and ostracization, we must extend helping hands and support, rather than sensationalizing the reporting.”
He further announced that the Ministry of Health is collaborating with the Office of the Attorney General and other partners to amend the law that criminalizes attempted suicide, adding, “Soon, Nigeria will join the committee of nations that have decriminalized attempted suicide.”
Pate also shared concerning statistics, revealing that Nigeria’s suicide rate is 12.9 per 100,000 people, a high figure for the country. Suicide is most prevalent among young people aged 15 to 29, making it the fourth leading cause of death in this age group in Africa, accounting for 40% of all suicide deaths.
However, the minister noted that these statistics might not fully reflect the true prevalence of suicide due to the stigma and underreporting surrounding mental health issues.
Dr. Walter Mulombo, the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative, echoed the need for a shift in perception. Represented by Mary Bantuo, Mulombo pointed out that for every recorded suicide, there are likely 20 others who have attempted it, with many more experiencing suicidal thoughts. He emphasized that changing the narrative requires moving from silence and stigma to openness, understanding, and support.
