Nigeria Urgently Needs a Surrogacy Act for Protection

Nigeria's surrogacy sector is experiencing rapid growth due to advancements in reproductive technology, yet it operates without a clear legal framework. This absence has persisted for decades, leading to uncertainty and vulnerability for surrogates, intended parents, and fertility practitioners.

The lack of federal legislation does not provide freedom but rather creates conditions for potential coercion and exploitation. Surrogates may enter agreements without independent legal representation, risking their rights and welfare.

The absence of a comprehensive legal framework raises significant human rights concerns, particularly as Nigeria is a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), which mandates protections against exploitation and discrimination. The proposed Surrogacy Act would establish clear rights and obligations for all parties, mandate psychological assessments, and ensure legal counsel for surrogates.

It is essential to create a regulated environment for surrogacy practices, including licensing for agencies and mechanisms for dispute resolution to protect vulnerable individuals.