Nigeria joined the global community to commemorate World Mental Health Day, with the federal government stressing that mental health is a fundamental human right for all Nigerians, not a privilege for a few. In Abuja, during a press briefing for the 2025 World Mental Health Day, the coordinating minister of health and social welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized this commitment. Represented by Madam Tetshoma Dafetta, the director of Human Resources Management at the ministry, Prof. Pate declared, “Mental health is not a luxury; it is a fundamental human right. Just as people deserve physical health care, housing, education, and safety, they also deserve access to mental health services for dignity and well-being. This becomes even more critical during crises.”

This year’s theme underscored the imperative for quality mental health services to remain available, affordable, and accessible, particularly during periods of crisis. The government is committed to dismantling long-standing barriers to care, including pervasive stigma, discrimination, and the high cost of treatment. Nigeria continues to grapple with significant mental health challenges, with millions experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma, particularly in conflict-affected regions and among internally displaced persons (IDPs).

To address the financial burden on patients, the federal government is actively working towards ensuring financial protection for individuals living with mental health conditions. Prof. Pate noted that many Nigerians currently pay out-of-pocket for treatment. He stated, “When people have medical emergencies, including mental health care, they often face catastrophic expenses. We are working toward a system where mental health care is not a financial burden but an accessible service within universal health coverage.”

A significant reform underway is the advanced process of decriminalizing attempted suicide. Prof. Pate described this reform as crucial for saving lives and encouraging individuals to seek help. He revealed, “Last year, we inaugurated a National Taskforce on decriminalisation, and I am pleased to inform you that we are now at a very advanced stage. Soon, this will become a reality.”

In his address to healthcare professionals, Prof. Pate urged them to deliver mental health care with empathy, compassion, and respect, highlighting the vital role of kindness and understanding in the healing and recovery process. Daju Kachallom, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, also spoke at the event, affirming the nation’s dedication to mental well-being as an essential component of national development. Dr. Pavel Ursu, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Representative in Nigeria, represented by WHO Technical Officer Dr. Mary Dewan, commended Nigeria’s leadership in mental health reform. WHO has collaborated with the government on initiatives such as rebuilding psychiatric facilities, integrating mental health into emergency response efforts, and supporting the training of health workers in the North-East.