Nigeria’s president Muhammadu Buhari recently signed the country mental health bill into law. Described as groundbreaking, the new law aims, among others, to improve access to mental health care and services in Nigeria.
The mental health bill aims to improve access to care and services for people with mental health issues. The bill, which has been long-awaited by mental health advocates, aims to address the significant gap in mental health services in the country.
The new law will establish a National Mental Health Authority, responsible for coordinating and overseeing mental health services across the country. This will include developing policies, guidelines, and standards for mental health services, as well as ensuring that people with mental health issues have access to quality care and services.
Additionally, the bill include provisions for the development of community-based mental health services, which will improve access to care for people living in remote and underserved areas. The bill also includes provisions for the protection of the rights of people with mental health issues, including the prohibition of discrimination and the establishment of independent tribunals to handle complaints.
Another important aspect of the bill is the commitment to mental health education and awareness campaigns, this will increase understanding and reduce the societal stigma towards mental illness, making it easier for people to seek out help when they need it.
“This bill is a critical step towards addressing the significant gap in mental health services in Nigeria,” said Dr. Oluwayemisi Ayodele, a psychiatrist and member of the Nigerian Medical Association. “By providing access to care and services, protecting the rights of people with mental health issues and addressing the societal stigma, we can improve the lives of millions of people.”