End the Rise of Youth Suicide in Lagos, Nigeria

Dear respected donors,

Thank you for your early support toward reducing youth suicide in Lagos. Although the funds received so far are still too low to begin full activities, your contribution means a great deal, and we want to share the urgent need your support will address.

Lagos continues to face rising youth suicide driven by unemployment, poverty, bullying, workplace abuse, stigma, and the high cost of mental healthcare. Many young people hide their struggles due to fear of judgment. Without guidance or a safe space, despair grows until it results in preventable deaths. Reports of hanging, the use of rat poison commonly called “Sniper,” and drowning in waterways show how urgent this crisis has become. Parents, teachers, and community leaders often miss the warning signs because they are not trained to recognize them.

This project will provide free counseling and a 24/7 helpline staffed by trained professionals who can respond immediately when a young person is in crisis. Workshops will teach coping skills to youth dealing with academic pressure, bullying, workplace stress, or family rejection. We will also train parents, teachers, religious leaders, and peers to detect warning signs early and guide at-risk youth to safe spaces where they can receive help without judgment. Social media campaigns will reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health.

Once fully funded, the initiative will create a network of trained youth leaders and adults who can respond quickly during moments of crisis. Safe spaces, helpline support, and counseling will help young people rebuild hope and reduce the number of lives lost to suicide.

We remain grateful for every contribution made. Your support moves us closer to reaching youth who urgently need someone to listen and guide them to safety.

Warm regards,
Joy Ojochogwu Etubi
Project Leader