Section 5: Functions of the Department.

The Department shall-(a) promote and facilitate collaboration among agencies and disciplines and support the strengthening of the community and facility linkages of mental health services;
(b) conduct regular monitoring and evaluation in support of policy formulation and planning on mental health related issues;
(c) provide for, and collaborate with relevant regulatory bodies to ensure the licensing, accrediting, development and implementation of minimum standards for the delivery of mental health services in Nigeria;
(d) ensure and guarantee the fundamental rights and safety of persons with mental health conditions, and protect them from discrimination and stigmatisation;
(e) facilitate access to educational, vocational and leisure opportunities within mental health care facilities;
(f) ensure integrated multidisciplinary services;
(g) maintain a national directory of mental health care facilities accredited for the admission and treatment of persons with mental health conditions;
(h) conduct regular inspection of mental health care facilities to ensure compliance with the guidelines for the treatment and care of persons with mental health conditions and prescribed standards;
(i) support the development of community based programmes for the care and rehabilitation of persons with mental disabilities where appropriate;
(j) promote research, data collection, analysis and the sharing and dissemination of information on mental health conditions in Nigeria;
(k) carry out sensitisation programs and promote access to information on the rights, care and management of persons with mental health conditions; and
(l) do such other things that are necessary for or incidental to the effective implementation of this Act.