Based on the WHO likely attempted suicide rate.
As a calculation of population size against suicide rate
Nigeria, officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is home to multiple ethnic groups, each with customary laws and traditions based on local customs, beliefs, and practices. The country has dual legal systems comprising Common Law, and Islamic Law which occasionally overlap.
Like many other nations, Nigeria inherited colonial-era laws that treated suicide as a criminal offence. These punitive measures perpetuate stigma and hinder the provision of appropriate mental health support to individuals in crisis. These laws do not align with modern mental health care principles and emphasise punishment over compassion and assistance.
Decriminalising suicide in Nigeria is complex due to its diverse cultural and legal landscapes, stemming from over 250 ethnic groups and historical legal systems. The country follows a federal legal system, with states employing their own criminal laws influenced by Islamic Sharia or British-influenced codes.
Nigeria's international agreements highlight the importance mental health and suicide prevention, prompting legal reform discussions.
Recent criticism calls for a shift from treating suicide as a crime to focusing on the underlying issues. However, these reforms face multiple challenges.