BEYOND DECRIMINALISING SUICIDES

Nigeria joins the global community in commemorating the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), prompting authorities to intensify efforts in addressing a major public health challenge. Last month, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) endorsed a proposal to amend the National Mental Health Act, aiming to eliminate criminal penalties for attempted suicide and shift the legal framework towards providing care and psychological support.

Currently, the country's legal system criminalizes suicide attempts under Section 327 of the Criminal Code Act (Southern Nigeria) and Section 231 of the Penal Code (Northern Nigeria). However, the legal reform is just one aspect of a more comprehensive response needed to tackle the rising number of suicides in Nigeria.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), changing perceptions around suicide is crucial, moving from silence and stigma to openness, understanding, and support. Nigeria's limited resources, with only nine federal neuropsychiatric hospitals, coupled with budget constraints and the departure of many mental health experts abroad, have contributed to a lack of adequate response to this growing issue.

The WHO reports that one in four Nigerians suffers from mental illnesses, but there are no apparent efforts to tackle this health challenge.

Reports of suicides have reached alarming levels and are not confined to specific demographics, with both young and old individuals taking their own lives. The root causes of these suicides are a combination of factors, including emotional and financial stress, poverty, hopelessness, and the use of hard drugs. Many Nigerians face enormous emotional and financial burdens, making them vulnerable to depression, which is the leading cause of suicide.

Poverty is a significant predisposing factor for depression, and the nation's socio-economic environment has contributed to the growing risk of suicide.

In addition to poverty and drug abuse, underlying mental disorders such as schizophrenia, excessive alcoholism, and drug abuse are significant risk factors for suicide. To effectively address the problem of suicides, stakeholders must adopt a multi-sectoral and multi-disciplinary approach involving various government ministries, agencies, and departments, particularly those of health, labour and employment, and social services.

Furthermore, raising awareness about the prevention of detrimental social habits, particularly among young people, is essential to tackle this public health emergency.