Section 4: Powers of the Department.

The Department shall-(a) propose policies for mental health conditions and facilitate their approval and implementation;
(b) promote the rehabilitation and integration of persons with mental health conditions into the community and the adoption of community and family-based care and support systems for persons with mental health conditions as appropriate;
(c) collect data and facilitate the conduct of research on mental health issues in Nigeria;
(d) formulate and review guidelines related to mental health conditions in consultation with relevant stakeholders;
(e) develop a comprehensive and integrated national plan and program on mental health including measures that-
(i) focus on prevention, early intervention, treatment, continuing care and prevention from relapse,
(ii) target persons at risk of developing mental health conditions,
(iii) target persons affected by catastrophic incidences and emergencies,
(iv) facilitate a national suicide prevention strategy,
(v) educate, train and increase awareness on mental health promotion and interventions, and
(vi) relate to other matters that are necessary for the promotion of mental wellbeing of every person in Nigeria; and
(f) conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of the provisions of this Act.