Nigeria's Mental Health Crisis: Buhari's New Law Aims for Change

World Mental Health Day is observed annually on October 10, with the 2026 theme “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change,” announced by the World Federation for Mental Health. In Nigeria, mental health issues are treated with levity, with the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria reporting that approximately 60 million Nigerians suffer from mental disorders, and about 90 percent lack access to appropriate care.

The National Mental Health Bill 2021, signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari on January 5, 2023, repealed the outdated Lunacy Act of 1958, prohibiting forced treatment and allowing patients to participate in their care plans. Despite this progress, significant challenges remain, including stigma and inadequate mental health resources, which contribute to rising suicide rates.

A multi-sectoral approach involving various government ministries is essential to address this public health emergency effectively.