A bill proposing the establishment of the Nigeria Surrogacy Regulatory Commission has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives. The bill, aimed at overseeing surrogacy arrangements, registration, and regulation in Nigeria, was sponsored by Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala (APC-Oyo) during Thursday’s plenary session.
In an interview following the session, Mr. Alao-Akala explained that the proposed law, once enacted, will safeguard the rights of all parties involved in surrogacy, including the child. He emphasized that the legislation aims to prevent discrimination and exploitation while offering support to couples struggling to have children.
“This is not a compulsory law but one of choice. It gives people the option to pursue surrogacy as a pathway to parenthood if they so choose. The bill is not about forcing anyone to have children through surrogacy, but about creating a legal framework to guide those who wish to pursue this route,” Mr. Alao-Akala said.
He acknowledged that cultural and religious factors may affect the acceptance of surrogacy in various parts of the country. However, he stressed that the law is designed to provide protections and standards for those who choose to engage in surrogacy, ensuring that they are legally guided and protected throughout the process.
“This law creates the necessary legal backing for surrogacy across the country, allowing individuals who opt for this process to do so under regulated and safe conditions,” he added.
