FG Moves to Treat Suicide as Health Issue, Not Crime, Targets Dec 2025

The Federal Government has fixed December 2025 as the deadline to decriminalise attempted suicide in Nigeria, shifting from punishment to a public health response. Health Minister Prof. Muhammad Pate made this known at a briefing in Abuja to mark World Suicide Prevention Day, themed “Changing the narrative on suicide, creating hope through action.”

According to him, criminalising attempted suicide under existing laws has worsened stigma and discouraged those in distress from seeking help. To address this, a taskforce chaired by Prof. Cheluchi Onyemelukwe was inaugurated in October 2024 to lead reforms. A draft amendment bill and a government white paper are now ready for presentation at the Federal Executive Council.

Pate, represented by Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom, said evidence shows that early detection, community support, and better access to care can cut suicide rates significantly. He stressed that Nigeria must embrace compassion in place of punishment.

Officials from the Clinton Health Access Initiative noted that Nigeria ranks seventh globally in suicide cases, underscoring the urgency of reform. Experts said aligning with international practice will save lives and promote empathy.