The House of Representatives has begun legislative action to prohibit commercial surrogacy in Nigeria and establish a framework to regulate the practice solely for non-commercial, altruistic purposes.
This follows the introduction of “A Bill for an Act to Protect the Health and Well-being of Women, Particularly in Relation to Surrogacy and for Related Matters”.
The bill, sponsored by Uchenna Okonkwo, who represents Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, was presented on the floor of the House.
The proposed legislation, which is expected to return for debate next week, seeks to ensure that surrogacy in Nigeria is safe, ethical, and regulated. It specifically focuses on protecting the rights and health of women involved in surrogacy arrangements.
The bill proposes a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment, a fine of two million naira, or both for anyone found guilty of violating its provisions.