Nigeria Mental Health Act Legislative Advocacy
Coalition communications & public affairs in partnership with GIZ, EU & 40+ CSOs
Executive Overview
For decades, mental healthcare in Nigeria was governed by obsolete colonial legislation (the 1916 Lunacy Act). Passing modern legislation required a multi-year, strategic public affairs campaign to shift public perception and secure legislative priority.
Strategic Challenge
Overcoming deeply entrenched societal stigma surrounding mental health, legal complexities in decriminalizing suicide, and navigating legislative priorities in the National Assembly.
Perception Strategy & Architecture
Architected a human-first narrative framework ("Mental Health is Human Health") emphasizing human dignity, economic productivity, and healthcare access over medical jargon.
Execution & Implementation
Coordinated joint press releases, televised debates on Arise TV and ITV, advocacy toolkits for 40+ civil society organizations, and targeted legislative briefings for federal lawmakers.
Measurable Impact & Results
Contributed to the landmark signing of the National Mental Health Act by the President of Nigeria—replacing the 1916 law and establishing human rights protections for mental health patients nationwide.