By Christabel Ndoeche
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is calling for renewed action to protect lives and reduce stigma around mental illness as Nigeria joined the global community to mark World Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday.
The ministry said, “… We can remind you of this: your life matters, and hope is real.”
The day was created to draw attention to suicide as a preventable public health issue and to mobilise governments, organisations, and communities worldwide in reducing stigma and promoting empathy.
The annual observance, first initiated in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in collaboration with the World Health Organisation, is aimed at raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide, and fostering stronger international and community-based responses.
IASP, founded in 1960 by psychiatrist Erwin Ringel and psychologist Norman Farberow, continues to lead the initiative globally.
With WHO and partners like the World Federation for Mental Health, the association emphasises that suicide can be prevented through community support, professional care, and policies that prioritise mental well-being.
The 2025 theme, “Creating Hope Through Action,” emphasises the power of small, meaningful acts to inspire hope and save lives.
The Ministry wrote on its official X handle, “Hey, Nigeria… surprise surprise: we actually care about your mental health more than you think. Today is #WorldSuicidePreventionDay2025, and while we can’t give you free jollof therapy or a hug through this screen, we can remind you of this: your life matters, and hope is real.”
Along with the tweet, a pictorial statement was shared.
In the statement, the Ministry stressed that Nigeria is scaling up its response. It noted that the National Mental Health Policy now integrates mental health into primary healthcare, while the Mental Health Act, signed in 2023 has strengthened rights, services, and protections for people living with mental health conditions.
“Efforts are underway to expand mental health awareness campaigns and crisis support services nationwide,” the Ministry said, reaffirming government commitment to tackling the issue.
The Ministry further underscored the role of communities, families, faith leaders, and workplaces in prevention, stressing that suicide prevention must be seen as a shared responsibility. It also reminded Nigerians that stigma remains a major challenge, pointing out that “in Nigeria, thousands of lives are lost annually, yet many cases go unreported due to stigma.”
The Ministry urged Nigerians to check in on friends and loved ones, listen without judgment, and seek help when needed. It added that professional support, counselling, and crisis resources are available, with health workers trained to provide care.
By aligning with global efforts, Nigeria reinforced its message that no one should feel alone in the dark. As the Ministry noted, “Feelings change. Pain is temporary, hope is real.”
By marking the day, Nigeria joined the global call to challenge stereotypes, support those in crisis, and foster a culture where mental health is taken as seriously as physical health.
