The Federal Government has announced plans to formally decriminalise attempted suicide in Nigeria by December 2025, marking a major shift in the country’s approach to mental health and criminal justice.
Officials say the move is part of broader reforms aimed at replacing punishment with care and support for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts. Under current Nigerian law, attempted suicide is classified as a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment — a provision long criticised by health experts and human rights advocates.
Confirming the timeline, government representatives reiterated that the reform will align Nigeria with global best practices, where attempted suicide is treated as a public health concern rather than a crime.
Mental health professionals have consistently argued that criminalisation discourages people from seeking help, further deepening stigma around mental illness. They insist that victims of suicide attempts require medical and psychological care, not jail sentences.
The planned reform has been widely welcomed by advocacy groups, who describe it as a long-overdue intervention that will improve access to mental health services and reduce preventable deaths.
Nigeria joins a growing list of African nations moving to reform colonial-era suicide laws, with Ghana and Kenya among those that have already abolished criminal penalties for attempted suicide.
Observers say the December deadline will be a crucial test of political will, as the government works to finalise legislative backing and mobilise resources for nationwide implementation.
