Reps propose Surrogacy Regulatory Commission

The House of Representatives has approved a bill seeking to establish Nigeria Surrogacy Regulatory Commission for monitoring and supervision of surrogacy arrangements in Nigeria.

The bill also seeks to “provide for the registration, regulation and monitoring of surrogacy agencies in Nigeria and for related matters.”

Leading the debate on the general principles of the proposed legislation, the sponsor of the bill, Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, stated that the bill aimed to regulate and evaluate surrogacy in Nigeria thereby ensuring medical and health laws are not flouted.

He added that it will also protect those battling infertility.

He argued that there existed a black market that takes advantage of the needs of expectant parents and exploits them.

He further stated that the surrogate mothers and the children to be born also need protection by law.

Following its adoption, the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas referred the motion to  the House Committee on Healthcare Services for further legislative action.

Dirisu Yakubu

Dirisu, has over 12 years experience covering political parties, National Assembly, sports, transportation, etc, and currently works with The PUNCH

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