Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is grappling with a silent but deadly epidemic: suicide. According to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Pate, Nigeria’s suicide rate currently stands at 12.9 per 100,000 people, exceeding both the global average of 10.5 and Africa’s average of 12.0. He further revealed that suicide is now the fourth leading cause of death among people aged 15 to 29 in Africa, with 40% of incidents in Nigeria occurring within this age group. This disturbing trend has left families, communities, and policymakers searching for answers.
The Scope of the Problem
Section 327 of Nigeria’s Criminal Code Act criminalizes attempted suicide, stating: ‘Any person who attempts to kill himself is guilty of a misdemeanour and is liable to imprisonment for one year.’ However, Prof. Pate has confirmed that the federal government is working to decriminalize suicide and is advocating for compassion and support instead.
Rising Incidents Spark Concern
Between 2024 and 2025, many cases of suicide and attempted suicide were reported by media platforms nationwide, indicating a significant mental health issue. In the absence of comprehensive national data, media reports have become one of the few windows into the scope of the issue.
In September 2024, officers from the Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS) prevented a 59-years old man from jumping off the Third Mainland Bridge. The man, a resident of Ilasa, reportedly said he was overwhelmed by life’s challenges.
That same year, Nick Imudia, the former CEO of Konga, reportedly died by suicide after jumping from his balcony in Lekki, Lagos. In another case, a 19-year-old pregnant girl in Ikorodu was rescued after attempting to take her life due to abandonment and financial hardship.
In Delta State, a woman in her early 30s reportedly jumped to her death from the Ekpan flyover, crying out about being “tired of hardship” before the fatal leap. In Oyo State, a 17-year-old mother allegedly ingested insecticide after a domestic dispute with her husband over what he deemed an insignificant issue—how much rice to cook for their child.
In February 2025, the body of 19-year-old secondary school student Sunday Moses was discovered hanging from a tree in a remote part of Afio Village, Ogun State. Meanwhile, in Benue State, a man identified as Mr. Tator Ayihe reportedly took his own life following a land dispute.
Understanding the Root Causes
Nneoma Okoro, a psychologist, told New Daily Prime that mental health challenges remain one of the leading drivers of suicide in Nigeria. She noted that cultural stigma discourages people from seeking help.
“The stigma surrounding mental health issues in Nigeria is a significant barrier. Many individuals struggle with isolation and hopelessness due to fear of being labelled as ‘mad’ or weak,” she said.
She added that economic hardship, social pressures, and a lack of access to mental health care worsen the situation, creating what she called “a perfect storm” for suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
Okoro emphasized that suicide has far-reaching consequences beyond the individual, affecting families and communities. She called for greater public awareness, reduced stigma, and increased access to mental health resources as urgent priorities.
Therapist Olufunmilayo Oyebanji echoed the need for a multi-layered response. She explained that while awareness campaigns are essential, they must be matched with investment in mental health infrastructure, including trained professionals and accessible facilities.
“People are afraid to seek help because they fear judgement. We must change that,” she said. “Support groups, counselling centres, and strong community ties can act as safety nets for those in distress.”
Oyebanji stressed that suicide prevention cannot be left to health professionals alone—it requires coordinated action from government, civil society, and individuals. Only a united response can move Nigeria closer to a future where mental health is valued, communities are resilient, and every life is treated with dignity.
The Media’s Responsibility
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) have published clear guidelines on how the media can help reduce suicide rates.
Rather than sensationalising tragedy, journalists are urged to report responsibly, offer accurate information on where to seek help, and avoid graphic content or explicit descriptions of suicide methods. Special care is recommended when covering celebrity suicides or interviewing grieving families.
The use of dramatic headlines, photographs, or videos that may trigger vulnerable individuals is strongly discouraged. Instead, the media is encouraged to spotlight stories of recovery and resilience, shifting the narrative from despair to hope.
Finally, suicide is a complex, deeply human crisis—one that cannot be solved through silence or punishment. As Nigeria confronts this urgent mental health challenge, the time has come for a coordinated, compassionate, and sustained response. By investing in mental health, breaking down stigma, strengthening community support, and promoting responsible media practices, the nation can begin to turn the tide—and save lives.
