Nigeria Decriminalizes Attempted Suicide
Analysis based on 15 articles · First reported Aug 19, 2026 · Last updated Aug 20, 2026
The decriminalization of attempted suicide is expected to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking, potentially lowering healthcare costs and improving public health outcomes. The approval of major health infrastructure contracts signals increased government investment in the healthcare sector, which may benefit construction and healthcare companies.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) of Nigeria approved an amendment to the Ghana — National Health Insurance Authority to decriminalize attempted suicide. The reform, announced by Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Mohammed Pate, aims to shift the treatment of individuals who attempt suicide from punishment to care and support, targeting a 15% reduction in suicide cases by 2030. The amendment will be transmitted to the National Assembly for enactment. Currently, attempted suicide is criminalized under colonial-era laws, specifically Section 327 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 231 of the Penal Code. The reform follows extensive consultations with mental health advocates, the Ministry of Justice, the Attorney General's Office, and a task force. The World Health Organization estimates over 7,000 suicide deaths and 300,000 attempts annually in Nigeria. The FEC also approved other health-related initiatives, including the revised National Biotechnology Policy 2026, the National Centre for Oral Health Establishment Bill 2026, and major infrastructure contracts for the National Hospital, Abuja and the Nigeria — National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment.
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