The Nigerian Senate has passed a crucial bill aimed at preventing and prohibiting sexual harassment in educational institutions and other related places across the country. The legislation, which has now passed its third reading, seeks to create a safer learning environment by protecting students from sexual abuse, exploitation, and misconduct.
The bill, a concurrent legislation from the House of Representatives, also establishes a clear legal framework for punishing offenders and enforcing stricter accountability within academic environments. According to Mediaplusng.com, the move marks a major step toward addressing the rising cases of sexual exploitation in schools and empowering students to speak out against such violations.
During the plenary, several lawmakers commended the intent of the bill but called for its scope to be expanded beyond the education sector. Senator Adams Oshiomhole stressed that the fight against sexual harassment should not stop at schools but also cover workplaces and other social settings.
“There is no need to restrict sexual harassment issues to students. We should craft this law in a way that gives it universal application,” Oshiomhole said.
Similarly, Senator Anthony Ani highlighted that sexual harassment is a widespread societal problem that affects people in every sector. “Sexual harassment is everywhere. Limiting this bill to tertiary institutions is a misnomer,” he added.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, explained that since the bill originated from the House of Representatives, the Senate could only make minor amendments and not reopen extensive debate. He also noted that other existing laws already address harassment in workplaces and public institutions.
After brief deliberations, the Senate unanimously passed the bill for third reading, reaffirming its commitment to protecting Nigerians—especially students—from all forms of sexual misconduct.
