A new law to protect students from sexual harassment by educators has been approved by Nigeria’s Senate. The bill aims to create strict rules against such misconduct in universities and other schools.
The move comes after many reported cases of lecturers harassing students in cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Benin. Victims often stay silent because they fear being punished, shamed, or let down by unclear school procedures.
During the debate, one senator argued the law should protect everyone, not just students. He suggested it should have a “universal application” to cover all situations.
However, the Deputy Senate President explained that the bill had already been approved by the House of Representatives. He also stated that harassment in offices is already covered by other existing laws.
With this new legislation, activists and women’s groups hope to break the long cycle of silence. They have been pushing for a stronger national law to give victims a clear path to justice.
The bill was finally passed, marking a major step in the effort to make Nigerian campuses safer for all students.
