Nigeria Affirms Mental Health as Fundamental Human Right, Urges Accessible Care

The Federal Government of Nigeria stresses the significance of mental health as a fundamental human right, not a luxury, during a press briefing in Abuja. The Ministry of Health's Coordinator, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, underscores the need for healthcare professionals to deliver mental health care with empathy and respect.

The government acknowledges the challenges faced in accessing mental health services in Nigeria, especially during crises like conflicts and displacement. Efforts are being made to ensure quality mental health services are available and affordable, with plans to advance decriminalization of suicide attempts.