Nigeria has joined the global community to mark World Suicide Prevention Day 2025, with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare calling for renewed efforts to save lives, reduce stigma, and promote mental well-being.
The ministry, in a statement on Tuesday, emphasized that suicide remains a preventable public health issue and that collective action is key.
“Your life matters, and hope is real,” the ministry posted on its official X handle, encouraging Nigerians to prioritise empathy and care.
World Suicide Prevention Day, first initiated in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), is observed annually to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and mobilise community-based responses.
This year’s theme, “Creating Hope Through Action,” underscores how small acts of kindness and support can inspire hope and save lives.
In its message, the Health Ministry noted that Nigeria is scaling up its response through the National Mental Health Policy, which integrates mental health into primary healthcare, and the Mental Health Act 2023, which strengthened protections and services for people living with mental health conditions.
“Efforts are underway to expand awareness campaigns and crisis support services nationwide,” the ministry stated, stressing that prevention requires the active involvement of communities, families, faith leaders, and workplaces.
The ministry further highlighted that stigma remains a significant barrier, with many cases of suicide in Nigeria going unreported. It urged citizens to check on loved ones, listen without judgment, and seek professional support where needed.
Globally, IASP—founded in 1960 by psychiatrist Erwin Ringel and psychologist Norman Farberow—continues to lead the initiative, with WHO and partners like the World Federation for Mental Health reinforcing that suicide prevention is possible through awareness, community support, and access to care.
By participating in this year’s observance, Nigeria joins the international call to challenge stereotypes, foster empathy, and ensure mental health is treated with the same seriousness as physical health.
As the ministry reminded Nigerians:
“Feelings change. Pain is temporary. Hope is real.”
