The National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, has expressed worry over the increasing rate of suicide in the country.
This is as it called on community and religious leaders to join hands with the federal government to find a solution to the problem.
“The task is not for government alone, but community leaders and members of the society.
“This is especially for religious leaders, school teachers and traditional rulers who must embark on a serious sensitisation,” the council said.
Stating its position in a statement issued by its president, Bello Shagari, on Sunday in Sokoto, NYCN said the federal government should establish a dedicated centre designed to stop prevalence of suicide.
The group stated further: “The act of committing suicide is not supported by our culture or various religions and it is unknown to the African tradition.
“I therefore want to appeal to Nigerians, especially the youth to desist from taking their own lives regardless of the conditions they find themselves.
“The poverty level in the country may be a major factor which leads to such act. However, we are confident that the government is doing everything possible to ensure our better future.”
