FG moves to decriminalise attempted suicide, targets 15% reduction by 2030

—-Okays Revised National Biotechnology Policy 2026 By Johnbosco Agbakwuru ABUJA— THE Federal Government on Wednesday, moved to decriminalise attempted suicide in Nigeria, targeting a 15 per cent reduction in suicide cases by 2030 as part of efforts to shift the country’s response to mental health challenges from punishment to care and support.“With the Attorney-General’s Office, Ministry of Justice, ourselves and the task force that was set up, and with the support of the National Assembly, we think this bill will make a major difference from a public health perspective and help us deal with the burden of mental ill health that afflicts many Nigerians.”Muhammad Ali Pate, said the Council had approved an amendment to the National Mental Health Act to remove the criminalisation of attempted suicide.