- laments substance abuse among Nigerians
From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The federal government has announced the plans to decriminalize attempted suicide, thereby addressing one of the most tragic consequences of poor mental health.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate stated this in Abuja on Friday, during a press conference to commemorate the 2025 World Mental Health Day.
The Minister, who was represented by the Director, Human Resources in the Ministry, Tetshoma Dafetta, made reference to the achievements made by the national task force that was inaugurated during the 2024 world mental health day commemoration. “I am happy to inform you that we are now at a very advanced stage concerning this process, and soonest this will become a reality.
“The National Mental Health Act 2021 provides legal protection and structure for care, and increased access to affordable quality healthcare; while the revised National Mental Health Policy (2023) guides our system-wide approach and integration.
“Similarly, the National Suicide Prevention Strategic Framework (2023–2030) is helping us address suicide being one of the most tragic consequences of poor mental health,” he said.
WHO Nigeria Country Representative, Dr. Pavel Ursu, who was represented by Dr. Mary Dewan, Technical Officer, non-communicable diseases, said the theme of this year’s event, “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies” serves as a powerful reminder that mental health must be safeguarded before, during, and after crises and other emergencies such as outbreaks, conflicts, or natural disasters- disrupt lives, fracture communities and leave lasting psychological scars.
Dr. Utsu said that while nearly everyone affected experiences emotional distress, one in five will face a mental health condition requiring professional care. “Yet, in the African Region, Mental Health, and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) remains inadequately integrated into emergency preparedness and response.”
He reiterated the call by the World Health Assembly in May 2024 for MHPSS to be embedded across all phases of emergency response. “WHO’s Regional Framework further guides Member-States to strengthen mental health systems and disaster risk reduction.
“In Nigeria, at the national level, WHO supported the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in collaboration with partners to put in place policies and frameworks for prevention and management of mental health disorders.
“In the North-Eastern part of Nigeria which has experienced humanitarian crisis, WHO worked closely wvith the government of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states, the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, alongside other key stakeholders to build capacity of healthcare workers, integrate mental health services into primary health and secondary health facilities, supported outreach sessions, procurement of essential psychotropic medicines.
“WHO has also facilitated the renovation of the State Psychiatric Hospital in Maiduguri and supported the development of the Borno State Mental Health Strategic Framework. These efforts exemplify how targeted investment in mental health can continue to build resilience and restore hope.”
WHO renewed collective commitment to building stronger, more resilient health systems that can deliver mental health services, especially in times of crisis.
It further advocated for increased investments, coordinated action, and the full integration of mental health into every phase of emergency preparedness and response. “Together, we can ensure that mental health support is not only available but truly accessible when it is most needed, thus offering hope, healing, and dignity to all communities.”
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Daju Kachallom, represented by the Director of Hospital Services, Dr. Salaudeen Jimoh, said the commemoration provides an opportunity to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to mental well-being as a key component of national development.
