Mental Health Fundamental Human Right, Not Luxury —FG

As Nigeria joins the global community to commemorate World Mental Day, the federal government has called on healthcare professionals to deliver mental health care with empathy, compassion and respect, stressing that mental health is not a privilege for a few but a fundamental human right for all Nigerians.

The coordinating minister of health and social welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said in Abuja yesterday Abuja at a press briefing in commemoration of the 2025 World Mental Health Day; “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.”

Represented by the director, Human Resources Management at the ministry, Madam Tetshoma Dafetta, the minister said this year’s theme highlighted the need to ensure that quality mental health services remain available, affordable, and accessible, especially in times of crisis.

Pate said the government was committed to addressing long-standing barriers that hinder access to care, including stigma, discrimination and the high cost of treatment.

He noted that Nigeria continues to face significant mental health challenges, with millions experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma, especially in conflict-affected regions and among internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Pate stressed that the federal government is working to ensure financial protection for people living with mental health conditions, noting that most Nigerians still pay out of pocket for treatment.

“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,” he said.

The minister also revealed that the government was at an advanced stage in the process of decriminalizing attempted suicide, a reform he described as crucial to saving lives and encouraging help-seeking behavior.

“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,” Pate said.

In his message to health professionals, Prof. Pate urged them to demonstrate empathy and respect when caring for patients with mental health conditions. He emphasised that kindness and understanding play a major role in healing and recovery.

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Daju Kachallom, said the commemoration provides an opportunity to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to mental well-being as a key component of national development.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Pavel Ursu, commended Nigeria’s leadership in mental health reform.

Represented by WHO Technical Officer, Non-communicable Diseases, Dr Mary Dewan, he noted WHO’s collaboration with the government in rebuilding psychiatric facilities, integrating mental health into emergency response, and supporting the training of health workers in the North-East.