With IVF demand rising, Nigeria’s unregulated fertility industry is increasingly targeting young women for egg harvesting, raising major health and human rights concerns.
Nigeria’s booming illicit trade in female eggs is raising ethical and health concerns, with young women on campuses being exploited amid weak regulation.
The University of Ibadan recently flagged how IVF clinics are sourcing eggs from vulnerable female students, highlighting a criminal dimension to the growing industry.
Recruiters reportedly offer cash incentives while clinics administer drugs that cause ovarian hyperstimulation, often without proper medical oversight. “The situation on many of our campuses regarding female egg ‘donors’ is an affront against humanity, and on our psyche and pride as a people,” a report noted.
Despite the World Health Organisation’s warning that egg harvesting must not be financially motivated and should be limited to twice a year, violations persist. Only Lagos State has a law regulating Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), leaving loopholes exploited nationwide.
Experts warn that without swift legislation and stricter monitoring, many young women will continue to suffer while desperate couples and unregulated clinics drive demand.