Suicide is a highly complex phenomenon with dire consequences for families, communities and countries. Every year, approximately 726,000 people take their own lives globally, making it one of the leading causes of death, particularly among young people. It is the third leading cause of death among individuals aged 15–29. Disturbingly, around 73 per cent of global suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. The reasons for suicide are multifaceted, influenced by social, cultural, biological, psychological and environmental factors present throughout life.
Nigeria with a population of over 200 million is one of the epicentres of suicide in the world with a suicide estimate of 17.3 per 100 000, which is higher than the global (10.5 per 100 000) and Africa (12.0 per 100 000) estimates. According to global statistics, since 2012 there has been an increase in suicide in the country. Moreover, Nigeria, currently, has been reporting the highest number of depression cases in Africa, according to WHO.
There are several measures that can be taken at national, state, community, families and individual levels to prevent suicide and self-harm. The World Health Organisation WHO’s LIVE initiative recommends the following key effective evidence-based interventions to prevent and reduce suicide:
limit access to the means of suicide (e.g. pesticides, firearms, certain medications);
interact with the media for responsible reporting of suicide;
foster socio-emotional life skills in adolescents; and
early identify, assess, manage and follow up anyone who is affected by suicidal behaviours.
Focus on the first intervention – limiting the easy access to the means of suicide; for Nigeria, this will be toxic pesticides – farm chemical as commonly called. According to a 2022 study on media reports on suicide in Nigeria, the commonest method used for suicide is pesticide ingestion (56.8%) followed by hanging (27.1%).
The alarming rise in suicide rates in Nigeria has drawn attention to a troubling factor: the easy access to lethal pesticides. As these chemicals are readily available in local markets, their misuse as a means of self-harm has become a public health crisis that demands urgent regulatory intervention.
Pesticides are designed to kill pests but pose significant risks to human health. Acute exposure leads to immediate symptoms such as nausea and dizziness and can even result in death. Chronic exposure has been linked to severe health issues, including cancers, reproductive challenges, endocrine disruptions and neurological disorders. Many Nigerians are unwittingly exposing themselves and their families to these dangers through improper use and storage of pesticides.
In Nigeria, the misuse of pesticides has become increasingly common; many individuals facing mental health crises may turn to these chemicals as a means of escape, unaware of the irreversible consequences they entail. Moreover, recovery from pesticide poisoning is notoriously difficult. Studies show that individuals who attempt suicide using pesticides often have lower survival rates compared to those who use less toxic means.
To effectively tackle the issue of pesticide-related suicides in Nigeria, a multifaceted approach is essential. First, there should be stricter regulation on pesticide sales – as at today, anyone – adult or child, sane or insane, trained or unskilled, as well as friends or foes have access to pesticides. This includes implementing licensing requirements for harmful industrial and farm chemicals and enhancing monitoring and regulation of pesticide sales to prevent misuse.
The strict enforcement of NAFDAC’s pesticide regulations is essential. Authorities in governments must ensure that agrochemical dealers and markets comply with listing and permit requirements, and the open sale of dangerous chemicals in markets and communities must be stopped. Promoting safer pest control alternatives such as use of neem leaves, neem oil, diatomaceous earth, chili-pepper barriers and airtight containers, drying of grains and seeds, using hermetic storage can help reduce reliance on toxic pesticides, offering both farmers and households safer ways to manage pests, and storing seeds/grains should be encouraged. Public awareness campaigns are also crucial in educating the population about the risks of pesticide misuse and providing information on available mental health resources.
Public awareness campaigns are also crucial. These campaigns should aim to educate communities about mental health issues and provide information on where to seek help. Additionally, raising awareness about the dangers of pesticide misuse and promoting safer alternatives can significantly contribute to prevention efforts.
Integrating mental health services into primary healthcare systems is another key recommendation. This integration will ensure easier access to mental health care for those in need. Furthermore, training healthcare workers to recognise warning signs and provide appropriate support is essential for effective intervention.
Community support programmes should be established to foster open discussions about mental health. Creating support networks for individuals facing economic hardships or mental health challenges can provide much-needed assistance and reduce feelings of isolation.
Improving research and data collection on suicide rates and methods used in Nigeria is critical for developing effective intervention strategies. Conducting studies on the effectiveness of various prevention strategies will help inform future actions and policies.
Finally, while pesticides may have been considered to play a role in modern large-scale industrial agriculture, a country like Nigeria where over 60 per cent of food produced is by a large number of small-scale farmers, their reliance on toxic chemicals should be discouraged (as more safe organic and the open sale of these toxic pesticides stopped as they poses significant dangers that cannot be overlooked. By prioritising regulation and promoting safer alternatives alongside robust mental health strategies, we can protect vulnerable populations from unnecessary harm and address the rising tide of suicide in our communities.
By Donald Ikenna Ofoegbu
Ofoegbu can be reached via ikennadonald@gmail.com
