Kaduna’s bold step forward: Uba Sani signs mental health bill into law

BY MICHAEL ISAAC

Kaduna State has taken a groundbreaking step in healthcare and human rights. On Thursday,18 September 2025, Governor Uba Sani signed the Kaduna State Mental Health Bill, 2023 into law, ushering in what many are calling a new era of compassion, dignity, and care for citizens living with mental health challenges.

For decades, mental health in Nigeria has been underfunded, stigmatised, and largely misunderstood. With the signing of this law—now officially recognised as the Kaduna State Mental Health Law, 2023—Kaduna becomes one of the few states in the country to create a comprehensive legal framework for mental healthcare.

What the Law Means for Citizens

At its core, the law is about people: people living with mental, intellectual, psychosocial, or cognitive disabilities who deserve respect, protection, and access to care. It sets out to make mental health services in Kaduna more accessible, integrated, and affordable while safeguarding human dignity.

Some of the standout provisions include:

• A New Mental Health Services Department within the Kaduna State Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Agency (KADSAMHSA). This department will drive the state’s mental health agenda, oversee rehabilitation in the least restrictive environment, and ensure facilities meet proper care standards.
• Stronger Human Rights Protections. The law explicitly outlaws degrading and harmful practices such as chaining, and guarantees that people with mental health conditions enjoy the same rights as any other citizen.
• Community-Based and Affordable Care. By weaving mental health into primary healthcare, the law ensures that treatment becomes more accessible, especially in rural and vulnerable communities where services are often lacking.
• Fairness in Work and Housing. Discrimination in employment and housing against persons with mental health conditions is prohibited, opening doors for inclusion and equal opportunities.
• A Focus on Women, Youth, and Vulnerable Groups. Following the signing, the Director-General of KADBUSA (soon to be KADSAMHSA), Joseph O. Ike, revealed that Governor Sani has directed the agency to prioritise perinatal mental health services for women, especially in communities where maternal and infant mortality is high. In addition, services tailored to adolescents, youth, and young persons will be expanded across the state.

A Shift from Stigma to Support

For many advocates and healthcare professionals, this law represents more than legislation—it is a shift in mindset. It acknowledges that people with mental health conditions are not to be hidden away or mistreated, but supported, included, and given a fair chance to thrive.

Governor Sani captured this sentiment when he signed the bill into law:

“Today, we are not just signing a document; we are affirming our humanity and our responsibility to care for the most vulnerable among us. This law is a beacon of hope—one that promises dignity, respect, and quality care for every citizen of Kaduna State.”

Looking Ahead

The law is expected to take effect in 2025, with an official commencement date to be announced. Until then, preparations will begin to strengthen existing structures, train health workers, and expand services to ensure Kaduna is ready to deliver on its promise.

As Kaduna steps forward, it sets an example for other Nigerian states: that mental health is not an afterthought, but a cornerstone of a healthy, inclusive, and compassionate society.