Says steps taken are not for treatment alone but also for prevention
Professor Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has disclosed the significant steps taken by the Ministry to address and support the Mental Health needs of the Citizens of Nigeria.
Stressing that the steps taken are not for treatment alone, but also for prevention and promotion of the mental well being amongst Nigerians.
A statement signed by Ado Bako, AD (Information and Public Relations), disclosed that the Minister revealed this in his remarks at an event, on the commemoration of the 2024 World Suicide Prevention Day, with the Theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” held on the 19th September, 2024 at Abuja
The Minister who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, said that apart from the mental health policy launched last year, the Ministry has also launched a National Suicide Strategic Framework 2023-2030, which according to him, clearly identifies the risk and protective factors associated with Suicide Prevention in the country.
He further stated that the document has also identified the strategic objectives, interventions and indicators for suicide prevention in Nigeria in line with the International best practices, adding that the Ministry is working closely with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and partners to address the section of the law that criminalizes attempted Suicide and improve the mental health and well-being of Nigerians.
Prof. Pate assured that Nigeria soon would be among nations that have decriminalized attempted Suicide.
While acknowledging the pain and suffering of those who have lost loved ones to suicide, Prof. Pate described the crusade on suicide prevention, as a collective responsibility, urging that citizens must be committed to creating a society that values mental health, promotes well-being, and provides care for all.
According to the Minister, the rate of suicides in Africa is 11.2 per 100,000 people higher than the global average of 9.0 per 100,000 people, and in Nigeria, based on available data on Suicide, the rate is at 12.9 per 100,000.
He said, “in changing the narrative on suicide, it means that there must be a shift from focusing solely on the tragedy of suicide, to the hope of prevention.
Prof Pate said, that suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among young people aged (15-29years).
Stating, “this is why the theme of this year’s event is aimed to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides.”
During her welcome address, which was delivered by Dr. Chukwuma Anyaike, Director, Public Health, the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Daju Kachollom, described every lost to suicide as a tragic reminder of the need to collectively do more, to reach out and to change the narrative around this preventable tragedy, adding that every life is precious.
The Permanent Secretary, mentioned that significant strides have been made in mental health awareness, policy formulation and Provision of mental services, adding that in contrast, a positive narrative embraces the idea that suicide is preventable and those who are struggling can be supported and helped, stressing that the narrative also encourages open dialogue, where seeking help is viewed as a sign of strength, not weakness.
Daju Kachollom pointed out that the Ministry would continue to collaborate with stakeholders, to ensure the full implementation of the National Suicide Prevention Strategic Framework, which provides a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention in the country .
She expressed gratitude to all partners, stakeholders, and every individual who has contributed to the fight against suicide, saying that their dedication and hard work are making difference, reminding them that every action taken, no matter how small, makes a significant impact.
Representatives of Ministries, Departments and Agencies as well as development partners such as World Health Organization, Clinton Health Access Iniative (CHAI) presented goodwill messages and commended the gaint efforts of the Honourable Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, for developing Mental health policy and implementation framework, National Suicide Prevention Strategic Framework among other efforts in mental health services.
