Nigeria, Nov. 20 -- A bill that seeks to establish a commission for mental health passed second reading at the Senate on Wednesday.

The bill entitled "A Bill for an Act to provide for the establishment and regulation of mental health and substance abuse services, protect persons with mental health needs and establishment of National Commission for Mental and Substance Abuse Services, for the effective management of mental health in Nigeria and for other related matters,2019" was sponsored by Ibrahim Oloriegbe (APC, Kwara Central).

The bill was first introduced to the Senate on October 14 and was passed after the lawmakers debated the provisions of the bill.

Leading the debate, Mr Oloriegbe said the bill is aimed at providing for the en...