The Nigerian Senate has approved a landmark bill that prescribes life imprisonment for anyone convicted of sexually defiling a minor. The legislation marks a significant step in strengthening the country’s laws against child sexual abuse.
Under the new bill, any adult—male or female—found guilty of engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor will face life imprisonment without the option of a fine. The move aims to serve as a strong deterrent to potential offenders and reinforce the protection of children’s rights in Nigeria.
During Tuesday’s plenary session, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District, initially moved the motion, stressing that defilement should be treated separately from rape due to the victim’s age and inability to consent.
“For a minor, this is a child incapable of giving consent. The trauma can destroy their life almost permanently. Those who commit such acts should face severe consequences,” Oshiomhole argued.
However, his specific proposal did not gain majority support. Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero of Kebbi Central later introduced a more stringent amendment, calling for life imprisonment as the standard punishment for anyone convicted of defiling a minor, irrespective of gender.
“I propose that the punishment for defilement of minors be life imprisonment, regardless of the offender’s gender,” Aliero said.
The Senate subsequently adopted Aliero’s amendment, officially passing the bill into law. Once signed by the President, the law will impose one of the toughest penalties for child sexual offences in Nigeria’s history.
Child sexual abuse is already a criminal offence under various sections of Chapter 21 of Nigeria’s Criminal Code, with the legal age of consent set at 18. However, enforcement and conviction rates have historically been low.
According to a 2015 UNICEF report, one in four Nigerian girls and one in ten boys experience sexual violence before reaching 18, underscoring the urgent need for stronger legal measures. Lawmakers hope the new bill will serve as both a deterrent and a statement of zero tolerance for crimes against children.
