The Federal Government has begun moves to decriminalise attempted suicide in Nigeria, following the approval by the Federal Executive Council of the position of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on the matter.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, disclosed this in Abuja during the 2026 World Suicide Prevention Day commemoration.

Salako, who was represented by the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, said the proposal would now be forwarded to the National Assembly for the necessary legislative process.

The minister described the proposed reform as both a legal and public health measure, stressing that people experiencing mental health crises require care, support and appropriate intervention rather than punishment.

He said removing the fear of criminal sanctions could help reduce stigma, encourage people to seek help and create greater opportunities for timely intervention.

Salako, however, noted that decriminalising attempted suicide alone would not be enough to prevent suicide.

Support: anyone in Nigeria who needs to talk to someone can reach the Nigerian Mental Health suicide prevention line on 0806 210 6493, or the Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative on 0809 111 6264.