By Ene Rebecca
August 20, 2026
Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council has approved the decriminalisation of attempted suicide as part of a proposed amendment to the Mental Health Act.
Minister of Health and Social Welfare Professor Mohammad Pate announced the decision on Wednesday after the council’s meeting in Abuja. He said the amendment, which will be forwarded to the National Assembly, aims to remove attempted suicide as a criminal offence under the country’s existing Criminal and Penal Codes.
According to Pate, the change is intended to shift the national approach so that individuals experiencing severe psychological distress are treated as people requiring care, treatment and rehabilitation rather than facing punishment.
The council also approved an executive bill for the establishment of a National Centre for Oral Health. It further endorsed upgrades to the National Hospital in Abuja, including modular clinics, a high-end wing and a Neuroscience Institute.
In addition, the Federal Executive Council approved the creation of a N300 billion National Cancer Research and Treatment Centre, which is expected to be completed within 36 months. Officials described the approvals as part of broader efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and expand access to specialised medical services.
The measures form part of the Federal Government’s ongoing initiatives to improve the country’s health system.
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