The Nigeria Surrogacy Bill, 2024: A Step Forward or a Missed Opportunity?

By Augusta Yaakugh, Esq.

Executive Director, Lex Initiative for Rights Advocacy and Development

Introduction

On 20 February 2024, Hon. Ayodeji Alao-Akala introduced the Surrogacy Bill, 2024 (HB. 1137), aimed at establishing the Nigeria Surrogacy Regulatory Commission. Having passed its second reading, the Bill seeks to regulate surrogacy arrangements in Nigeria, ensuring ethical practices and the protection of all parties involved. While the Bill represents progress in reproductive health policy, it raises significant concerns about inclusivity, socio-economic justice, and the rights of marginalised women.

At Lex Initiative, our work in promoting gender equality and socio-economic empowerment for women compels us to critically examine this Bill. In this article, we explore its potential impacts, identify gaps, and propose reforms to ensure it aligns with human rights principles and addresses the realities of Nigeria’s diverse population.

What the Bill Proposes

The Surrogacy Bill establishes the Nigeria Surrogacy Regulatory Commission to oversee surrogacy arrangements. Its key provisions include:

• Registration and regulation of surrogacy agencies and agreements.

• Prohibition of commercial surrogacy (allowing only altruistic arrangements).

• Eligibility restricted to married couples or medically certified infertile singles.

• Mandatory psychological and medical evaluations for surrogates and intended parents.

• Minimum age requirement of 21 for surrogates.

These provisions are supported by penalties for violations, ensuring compliance through strict monitoring.

What the Bill Gets Right

1. Ethical Regulation:

The Bill establishes guidelines for ethical surrogacy practices, reducing the risk of exploitation.

2. Professional Oversight:

The inclusion of representatives from women’s rights, child welfare, and reproductive health sectors ensures a multidisciplinary approach.

3. Legal Clarity:

By mandating notarised agreements and regulatory oversight, the Bill offers much-needed legal structure to surrogacy arrangements in Nigeria.

Where the Bill Falls Short

1. Restrictive Eligibility Criteria:

By limiting surrogacy to married couples and infertile singles, the Bill excludes many individuals and families in need of alternative reproductive options.

2. Prohibition of Commercial Surrogacy:

The outright ban on commercial surrogacy fails to account for the socio-economic realities of Nigerian women. Many marginalised women could benefit from regulated compensation for their services.

3. Insufficient Protections for Surrogates:

The Bill lacks provisions for financial, psychological, and post-pregnancy support for surrogates, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and neglect.

4. Exclusion of Rural and Marginalised Voices:

While the Bill includes women’s rights representatives, it does not specifically mandate representation for rural or low-income women, who are often most affected by reproductive policies.

5. Lack of Public Awareness Mechanisms:

The absence of public education initiatives risks leaving many Nigerians unaware of their rights and obligations under the new surrogacy framework.

How This Bill Connects to Our Key Advocacy Areas

At Lex Initiative, this Bill intersects with several of our core legal areas for advocacy:

1. Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR):

• The Bill addresses reproductive autonomy by regulating surrogacy practices and ensuring ethical guidelines.

• It raises critical questions about access to safe and legal surrogacy arrangements, a key aspect of SRHR advocacy.

2. Gender-Based Violence (GBV):

• By seeking to regulate surrogacy, the Bill indirectly aims to protect women from exploitation, coercion, and abuse. However, the absence of robust protective measures leaves surrogates vulnerable to harm.

3. Access to Justice:

• The legal frameworks outlined in the Bill align with our work in promoting access to justice for marginalised women. However, the barriers in navigating the legal processes for surrogacy agreements must be addressed.

4. Social Protection Programmes:

• Surrogates, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, require financial support and social safety nets to prevent exploitation and ensure equitable participation in surrogacy arrangements.

5. Healthcare and Employment Rights:

• The Bill’s provisions for medical and psychological evaluations highlight the need for accessible and affordable healthcare for all parties involved in surrogacy.

How This Affects Marginalised Women

The Bill’s restrictive provisions risk deepening existing inequalities. Women in low-income or rural areas may turn to informal and unregulated surrogacy arrangements due to the prohibition of commercial surrogacy, increasing their vulnerability to exploitation.

Additionally, the lack of targeted protections for marginalised groups such as rural women perpetuates systemic inequities that the Bill seeks to address.

Lex Initiative’s Recommendations

To ensure the Bill promotes equity and justice, we propose the following amendments:

1. Broaden Eligibility Criteria:

• Expand eligibility to include individuals and families who face unique reproductive challenges, particularly from rural and low-income communities.

• Simplify the medical certification process to ensure accessibility for women in underserved areas.

2. Regulate, Not Prohibit, Commercial Surrogacy:

• Allow regulated compensation for surrogates to prevent exploitation while ensuring their financial security.

• Set clear guidelines for what constitutes reasonable compensation.

3. Comprehensive Support for Surrogates:

• Mandate financial, healthcare, and psychological support for surrogates during and after pregnancy.

• Establish grievance redress mechanisms to address disputes or exploitation.

4. Enhance Representation in the Commission:

• Ensure representation from diverse groups, including rural and low-income women, to provide a holistic perspective on surrogacy-related policies.

5. Strengthen Awareness and Capacity-Building Provisions:

• Mandate public education campaigns on surrogacy laws and rights.

• Provide funding for workshops and training for surrogacy agencies and healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

The Nigeria Surrogacy Bill, 2024, is a significant step towards addressing the complexities of surrogacy in Nigeria. However, without critical amendments, it risks reinforcing systemic inequities and excluding vulnerable groups.

At Lex Initiative, we are committed to advocating for a more inclusive and equitable approach to surrogacy regulation. By addressing the gaps outlined above, we can ensure the Bill fulfils its promise of justice and dignity for all Nigerians.

Call to Action

We invite stakeholders, civil society organisations, and individuals to join us in pushing for these necessary reforms. Together, we can create a surrogacy framework that truly reflects Nigeria’s diverse population and upholds the principles of equality and human rights.

Contact Us

For more information or to collaborate on this advocacy, please reach out to Lex Initiative at info@liradnigeria.org. 

Stay informed and stay engaged. Visit our blog regularly for updates on our advocacy efforts and insights into gender and reproductive justice.

Statement by the Executive Director of Lex Initiative on Human Rights Day 2024

Today, as we commemorate Human Rights Day 2024, we are called to reflect on the universal values of dignity, equality, and freedom enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The theme for this year, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” resonates deeply with our work at Lex Initiative and the urgency of addressing the inequalities that persist in our society.

As the Executive Director of Lex Initiative, I am privileged to lead an organisation dedicated to empowering marginalised women through legal education, advocacy, and strategic litigation. Our mission aligns with the global imperative to create a world where human rights are not merely aspirational but transformative in their impact.

Our Work and Commitment

At Lex Initiative, we focus on addressing the systemic discrimination, inequality, and injustice faced by women with intersecting identities. Our work is not just about responding to violations but about challenging the structures that perpetuate exclusion and marginalisation.

We believe that human rights must be actionable. Through legal empowerment, we equip women with the tools to challenge oppressive systems. Through advocacy, we amplify their voices, ensuring they are heard and valued. Through litigation, we fight for justice, holding systems accountable and creating precedents for equality.

The Time Is Now

This year’s theme reminds us of the urgency to act. Women on the margins cannot afford to wait for justice. Their futures—and indeed our collective future—depend on the decisions we make today. Delays in addressing inequality deepen harm and prolong suffering.

As a feminist-led organisation, we are committed to driving this change with evidence-based approaches, collaborative efforts, and unwavering dedication. Our work is not just about addressing immediate needs but about shaping a future where every woman, regardless of her background, can thrive.

A Call for Collective Action

On this Human Rights Day, I call on governments, civil society, the private sector, and individuals to join us in this critical work. Human rights cannot be fully realised without addressing the systemic barriers faced by women. We must act with intention and urgency to reform laws, dismantle discriminatory practices, and create systems that uplift and protect the most vulnerable.

Human rights are the foundation of a just and equitable society. As we move forward, let us remember that the fight for justice is a collective effort, and the time to act is right now. Together, we can build a future where all women enjoy universal human rights, social justice, and equal opportunities.

Signed,

Augusta Yaakugh, Esq.

Executive Director, Lex Initiative

#HumanRightsDay2024 #OurRightsOurFuture #RightNow #LexInitiative #JusticeForAll

From Silence to Strength: Empowering Women with Disabilities to Lead and Thrive

The theme for this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” is a powerful call to action. It underscores the pivotal role individuals with disabilities, particularly women, must play in creating a just and equitable world. Yet, for women with disabilities, stepping into leadership often involves navigating systemic challenges—chief among them, pervasive violence, societal neglect, and gaps in legal protections.

Globally and in Nigeria, women with disabilities face disproportionate risks of violence, compounded by systemic barriers that limit their access to justice, support, and opportunities to lead. As we commemorate this important day, it is essential to centre their voices, elevate their leadership, and dismantle the barriers preventing them from thriving as agents of change.

A Global Epidemic of Violence

Violence against women remains a global epidemic, but women with disabilities face uniquely severe risks. According to the World Health Organisation, women with disabilities are up to three times more likely to experience physical, sexual, or psychological abuse than their non-disabled peers. This violence is often perpetrated by those they depend on—family members, caregivers, or intimate partners—making escape even more difficult.

In Nigeria, the statistics are alarming. A 2021 study revealed that nearly 68% of women with disabilities reported experiencing violence in their lifetimes. This is exacerbated by systemic failures that hinder their access to justice.

For Chika, a Nigerian woman with a mobility impairment and a survivor of domestic violence, the challenge was not only escaping her abuser but also navigating inaccessible reporting mechanisms. “I was trapped—not just by my abuser, but by a system that didn’t know how to hear me,” she said. Chika’s story is emblematic of the experiences of countless women with disabilities who are left vulnerable by both societal attitudes and institutional neglect.

Policy Frameworks: The Disability Act and the VAPP Act

Nigeria has made significant strides in addressing discrimination and gender-based violence through its legal frameworks. The Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act (2019) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015) are two landmark legislations designed to protect vulnerable groups. However, both Acts fall short of addressing the unique intersectional challenges faced by women with disabilities.

The Disability Act

The Disability Act prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities and mandates accessibility in public spaces, transportation, and workplaces. It also established the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) to oversee implementation. However, the Act does not explicitly address gender-based violence or the specific vulnerabilities of women with disabilities.

While the Act requires accessible public spaces, this provision is often poorly implemented, leaving police stations, courts, and shelters inaccessible to women with disabilities who need to report abuse. Moreover, the Act fails to integrate with gender-focused legislation like the VAPP Act, creating gaps in protections and support systems.

The VAPP Act

The VAPP Act is Nigeria’s most comprehensive legislation on gender-based violence, addressing issues such as domestic violence, rape, and harmful traditional practices. However, it does not include specific provisions for women with disabilities, whose experiences of violence often differ significantly from those of other women.

For instance, women with disabilities are more likely to experience abuse from caregivers or intimate partners who exploit their dependency. They also face additional barriers to accessing justice, such as a lack of sign language interpreters or Braille materials in legal settings.

Bridging the Gaps: Recommendations for Legal Reform

To address the shortcomings of the Disability Act and the VAPP Act, and to ensure that women with disabilities are fully protected and empowered, the following steps are essential:

1. Amend the Disability Act: Incorporate provisions that specifically address gender-based violence, including mandatory protections for women with disabilities in abusive situations.

2. Integrate the Disability and VAPP Acts: Harmonise the two laws to ensure comprehensive protections that address both disability-related and gender-based vulnerabilities.

3. Strengthen Accessibility: Make reporting mechanisms, shelters, and judicial services fully accessible through ramps, sign language interpreters, Braille materials, and digital platforms.

4. Raise Awareness: Launch public education campaigns to combat stigma and increase awareness of the rights of women with disabilities under both Acts.

5. Support Grassroots Advocacy: Empower organisations like the Lex Initiative for Rights Advocacy and Development (LIRAD) to train women with disabilities as advocates and leaders in their communities.

Stories of Leadership and Resilience

Despite these systemic challenges, women with disabilities in Nigeria have demonstrated remarkable resilience and leadership. Through their advocacy and courage, they are challenging societal norms and inspiring transformative change.

Fatima, a Nigerian woman with a hearing impairment, was empowered through LIRAD’s training to establish a local support group for survivors of violence. “For the first time, I felt seen and heard,” she shared. “Now, I’m helping other women understand their rights and how to demand them.”

Globally, similar movements are taking shape. Initiatives like the UN Women Disability Inclusion Strategy are empowering women with disabilities to take on leadership roles in policy advocacy and community engagement. These efforts underscore that women with disabilities are not just survivors—they are leaders, changemakers, and architects of a more inclusive future.

A Call to Action

As we commemorate this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the theme challenges us to move beyond reflection to meaningful action. By addressing the systemic barriers embedded in Nigeria’s legal and social frameworks, we can create a society where women with disabilities are no longer silenced but are empowered to lead and thrive.

This requires a collective effort:

• Governments must amend and harmonise laws like the Disability Act and VAPP Act to ensure comprehensive protections.

• Civil society organisations must amplify the voices of women with disabilities, empowering them to take on leadership roles.

• Communities must confront and dismantle harmful stereotypes, fostering inclusion and respect for all.

Conclusion

The stories of women like Chika and Fatima remind us that the fight for justice and inclusion is far from over. Their journeys from silence to strength are a testament to the transformative power of leadership and advocacy.

At Lex Initiative, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering women with disabilities and advocating for systemic change. Together, we can create a future where their voices are not only heard but lead the way towards a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable world.

What role will you play in this movement for justice and equality?

World AIDS Day: Addressing the Intersectionality of HIV/AIDS and Feminism in Nigeria

Executive Director, Lex Initiative for Rights Advocacy and Development

Today, as the world unites to mark World AIDS Day, we are reminded of the enduring fight against HIV/AIDS and its devastating impacts. In Nigeria, this disease continues to disproportionately affect women, especially those living at the intersections of poverty, marginalisation, and discrimination. As we reflect, we must also act—with urgency, compassion, and accountability—to create a society that is not only free of stigma but one where every woman has access to justice, equality, and dignity.

The Feminine Agenda: Women and HIV/AIDS in Nigeria

By Augusta Yaakugh, Esq.

HIV/AIDS is not just a public health crisis; it is a mirror reflecting the entrenched inequalities faced by women in Nigeria. According to UNAIDS, women constitute the majority of people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, with adolescent girls and young women particularly at risk. For women living with disabilities, female sex workers, women who use drugs, and LBQ women, this burden is even heavier, compounded by systemic exclusion and societal prejudices.

Too often, the response to HIV/AIDS in Nigeria has failed to address the gendered realities of this epidemic. Women living with HIV are not only fighting a virus—they are battling stigma, discrimination, and the absence of legal protections. This is a collective failure. It is imperative that we recognise these injustices and centre women’s experiences in both policy and practice.

A Call for a More Inclusive Feminist Movement

The feminist movement in Nigeria has made commendable strides, yet it remains incomplete. Too often, feminist advocacy is centred around heteronormative and able-bodied frameworks that fail to capture the lived experiences of women at the intersections of health, class, and identity. The exclusion of women living with HIV/AIDS, along with other marginalised groups, weakens the foundation of our collective struggle for equality.

An inclusive feminist movement must go beyond rhetoric to action. It must champion the rights of all women—LBQ women, sex workers, disabled women, and those living with HIV/AIDS—ensuring they are seen, heard, and supported. Feminism in Nigeria must embrace intersectionality as its core principle, recognising that the oppression of one is the oppression of all.

Our Work at Lex Initiative

At Lex Initiative for Rights Advocacy and Development, we are committed to advancing a feminist agenda rooted in inclusion and justice. Our work addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by marginalised women, particularly those living with HIV/AIDS, through practical interventions and advocacy.

1. Empowering Marginalised Women

Our FeminaJustice Project provides free legal clinics, pro bono representation, and socio-economic empowerment for women living with HIV/AIDS and other marginalised identities. These women often face criminalisation for their realities, from engaging in survival sex work to drug use in the face of poverty. Our work gives them access to justice and helps dismantle the barriers that perpetuate their vulnerability.

2. Promoting Feminist Lawyering

We train and equip female lawyers to adopt a feminist approach to their work, ensuring that legal services are gender-responsive and inclusive. By building the capacity of feminist lawyers, we ensure that women living with HIV/AIDS and others at the margins are defended by those who understand and share their struggles.

3. Advocating for Systemic Change

Through evidence-based research and strategic litigation, we challenge discriminatory laws and policies that exacerbate inequalities. Our Legal Baseline Study on LGBTI+ Rights in Nigeria and our advocacy efforts have shed light on the intersectional challenges faced by marginalised women and communities, particularly in accessing healthcare, employment, and social protection.

4. Changing Narratives Through Art and Dialogue

Initiatives like our Art for Advocacy programme use creative expression to amplify the voices of women living with HIV/AIDS and other marginalised groups. By fostering empathy and understanding, we challenge societal attitudes and shift perceptions.

A Call for Accountability

As we observe World AIDS Day, we must hold ourselves accountable. This is not just a day for awareness—it is a call to action. Policymakers must prioritise gender-responsive healthcare systems that ensure women living with HIV/AIDS can access the care and support they need. Civil society must work harder to challenge stigma and discrimination, while the feminist movement must strive to leave no woman behind.

But accountability is not just for institutions—it is for all of us. We must reflect on how our own biases and inaction contribute to the exclusion of marginalised women. Let this day remind us that the fight against HIV/AIDS is not only about ending a virus; it is about ending the inequalities that sustain it.

Towards Justice and Dignity for All Women

At Lex Initiative, we envision a Nigeria where every woman, regardless of her health status or identity, can live a life of dignity, equality, and justice. This vision requires collective effort. Together, we can build a more inclusive feminist movement—one that addresses the intersectionality of HIV/AIDS and creates a future where all women can thrive.

On this World AIDS Day, let us recommit ourselves to this cause. Let us act with compassion, demand accountability, and work towards a world where no woman is left behind.

Augusta Yaakugh, Esq., is the Executive Director of Lex Initiative for Rights Advocacy and Development, an organisation dedicated to advancing the rights and dignity of marginalised women in Nigeria.

A Call to Action: Commemorating the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls”

Statement by Augusta Yaakugh Esq., Founder and Executive Director, LIRAD

Today, as the world observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, I join countless advocates, survivors, and allies in calling for bold action to end this pervasive crisis. Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread human rights violations, impacting 1 in 3 women globally. For marginalised women, however, the risk is even greater, compounded by stigma, systemic inequality, and lack of access to justice.

At LIRAD, we are committed to breaking the cycles of violence that have persisted for far too long, particularly for the most vulnerable among us. Women living with HIV, women with disabilities, women who use drugs, LBQTI women, and sex workers face not only physical and psychological violence but also structural and systemic barriers that reinforce their exclusion. These women are not only survivors but also leaders, advocates, and community builders whose voices deserve to be heard and amplified.

The Legacy of Beijing +30

This year’s theme, “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” reminds us of the commitments made nearly three decades ago at the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing. That conference was a turning point, setting forth a bold agenda to achieve gender equality and eliminate violence against women.

Yet, as we approach the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, we must confront the reality that these promises remain unfulfilled for many women. The progress made over the years, while significant, has not been inclusive enough to address the unique vulnerabilities of marginalised groups. The fight to end violence against women must be intersectional, addressing the overlapping factors that leave some women more vulnerable than others.

Marginalised Women: At the Intersection of Vulnerability and Resilience

Across Nigeria, West Africa, and the African continent, marginalised women face unique and intersecting challenges:

• Women living with HIV face violence rooted in stigma, discrimination, and blame, particularly in healthcare systems and intimate relationships.

• Women with disabilities are disproportionately affected by physical and sexual abuse, often at the hands of those tasked with their care.

• Women who use drugs and sex workers are criminalised and excluded from essential services, making them more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

• LBQTI women are subjected to hate crimes and systemic rejection, exacerbated by legal frameworks and cultural norms that deny their existence and dignity.

These women are often silenced and excluded from the very systems designed to protect them. Yet, they continue to lead efforts within their communities, demonstrating resilience, courage, and hope.

LIRAD’s Commitment to Action

At LIRAD, we believe that violence against women is not just a women’s issue—it is a societal failure and a violation of human rights. Our mission is to challenge these failures and build systems that empower women, particularly those on the margins.

To this end, we are pursuing a comprehensive strategy that includes:

1. Advocating for Inclusive Policies: Strong laws and policies that address the specific needs of marginalised women, ensuring they are protected and their rights upheld.

2. Challenging Harmful Norms: Working with communities to dismantle societal attitudes that perpetuate violence, stigma, and discrimination.

3. Expanding Access to Services: Providing survivor-centred healthcare, psychosocial support, and legal aid tailored to the realities of marginalised women.

4. Building Solidarity: Creating platforms where marginalised women can share their stories, lead advocacy efforts, and hold systems accountable.

A Collective Responsibility

Ending violence against women and girls requires the efforts of governments, civil society, and individuals alike. It demands that we listen to survivors, amplify their voices, and prioritise their needs in policy and action. As we reflect on this day, let us remember that real change comes from standing together, speaking out, and refusing to accept violence in any form.

Looking Ahead

This year, as we align with the 2024 United Nations UNiTE Campaign, I urge all stakeholders to recommit to the vision of Beijing. Let us turn promises into action and action into lasting impact. The world we want—a world where no woman or girl lives in fear of violence—is possible, but only if we work together to dismantle the systems that perpetuate inequality and harm.

To every woman who has survived violence: we see you, we hear you, and we stand with you. To every ally and advocate: your voice is critical in this fight. And to every leader: now is the time to act decisively and inclusively.

At LIRAD, we remain steadfast in our commitment to amplifying the voices of the most marginalised, breaking barriers, and building a future where every woman and girl feels safe, empowered, and heard.

Together, we can UNiTE to end violence against women and girls—for good.

Augusta Yaakugh Esq

Founder and Executive Director, LIRAD

Towards Beijing +30: Amplifying Marginalised Voices to End Violence Against Women and Girls

By Green Chizoba.O, Esq

As the world observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, we are reminded of the promises made nearly three decades ago at the historic Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing. The 2024 United Nations UNiTE Campaign theme, “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” is a call to reignite global commitments to ending gender-based violence in all its forms.

However, as we reflect on progress made, we must confront an uncomfortable truth: many women, particularly those on the margins, have been left behind in this journey.

At the heart of this year’s campaign theme is an urgent demand for inclusivity. Ending violence against women and girls must mean ending violence against all women and girls, including those whose identities and circumstances place them at the intersections of multiple forms of discrimination. Women living with HIV, women with disabilities, women who use drugs, LBQTI women, and sex workers are among those most vulnerable to violence, yet their experiences are often sidelined in mainstream advocacy.

The Marginalised Majority

The Executive Director of LIRAD eloquently captured the gravity of this crisis in her address today, highlighting the unique barriers faced by marginalised women in Nigeria, West Africa, and across the African continent.

For women living with HIV, stigma often translates into violence from intimate partners, discrimination in healthcare, and social exclusion. Women with disabilities face disproportionately high rates of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, often from those entrusted with their care. Women who use drugs and sex workers are criminalised and stigmatised, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation, extortion, and violence from law enforcement and clients alike. LBQTI women endure hate crimes and systemic rejection, frequently exacerbated by laws and cultural norms that criminalise their identities.

These groups are not small minorities. They represent millions of women whose stories are silenced, whose struggles are neglected, and whose safety and dignity are routinely violated.

UNiTE to End Marginalisation

The UNiTE campaign’s 2024 focus on Beijing +30 offers a critical opportunity to amplify the voices of marginalised women and advocate for systemic change. We cannot truly commemorate the legacy of Beijing if we fail to address the specific realities of those most at risk of violence.

As the Executive Director of LIRAD pointed out, violence against marginalised women is not just physical—it is systemic, institutional, and deeply embedded in social norms, laws, and policies that exclude them. This year’s theme compels us to move beyond surface-level solutions and tackle the root causes of this violence, including structural inequalities and cultural attitudes that perpetuate stigma and silence.

Actions Towards Beijing +30

To align with the 2024 UNiTE Campaign, LIRAD is championing a multi-pronged approach to ending violence against marginalised women and girls:

1. Advocacy for Inclusive Policies: Stronger laws and policies that address the intersecting vulnerabilities of marginalised women, such as those living with HIV, women with disabilities, and sex workers.

2. Community-Led Prevention Programmes: Initiatives that challenge harmful societal norms and empower women to lead efforts in their own communities.

3. Investment in Support Services: Expanding access to survivor-centred healthcare, legal aid, and psychosocial support that addresses the unique needs of marginalised groups.

4. Education and Awareness Campaigns: Shifting societal attitudes through education on the human rights of all women, particularly those facing intersecting barriers.

Towards a Truly Inclusive Future

As we approach Beijing +30, let us ensure that the global movement to end violence against women is truly inclusive. The promise of Beijing was a world where all women could live free from violence, regardless of their identities, circumstances, or the barriers they face. Achieving this vision requires us to centre the voices of marginalised women and work tirelessly to dismantle the systems that oppress them.

At LIRAD, we are committed to this fight. We believe that no woman—whether living with HIV, with disabilities, who uses drugs, identifies as LBQTI, or works as a sex worker—should ever face violence, stigma, or exclusion.

The 2024 UNiTE campaign reminds us that this is a collective responsibility. Together, we must amplify the voices of those most affected, break the barriers that hold them back, and build a future where every woman and girl is safe, empowered, and heard.

Together, we can UNiTE to end violence against women and girls—for good.

Let us honour the legacy of Beijing by turning words into action, promises into progress, and silence into solidarity.

Human Trafficking and Intersectionality: Why Marginalized Women Are at Greater Risk By Augusta Yaakugh Esq. and Green Chizoba, .O, Esq.

Human trafficking is a global crisis that continues to strip millions of individuals, particularly women, of their freedom, dignity, and opportunities. While all women face varying degrees of risk, marginalized women—those affected by poverty, disability, sexual orientation, and gender discrimination—bear the brunt of this exploitative system. Understanding the intersectionality of these factors is crucial in developing effective strategies to combat trafficking and ensure no one is left behind.

The Intersectionality of Vulnerability

Intersectionality, a concept coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, recognizes how various forms of inequality intersect to compound the challenges faced by individuals. In the context of human trafficking, marginalized women often exist at the crossroads of multiple vulnerabilities, making them prime targets for traffickers.

  1. Poverty: Economic hardship is one of the leading drivers of trafficking. Women from low-income backgrounds are often lured by promises of employment, only to be exploited in forced labor or commercial sex. For many, the need to support their families outweighs the risks, leaving them susceptible to deception and coercion.
  2. Disability: Women living with disabilities face unique challenges that traffickers exploit. Limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities increases their vulnerability. In some cases, traffickers capitalize on societal neglect and the mistaken belief that women with disabilities are less likely to report abuse.
  3. Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity: LBQ (lesbian, bisexual, and queer) women often face social stigma, family rejection, and systemic discrimination. Many are forced to leave their homes and communities, making them vulnerable to trafficking networks. Their marginalization also means they are less likely to access justice or support services.
  4. Gender Discrimination: Deeply entrenched patriarchal norms and gender inequality continue to place women at a disadvantage. In societies where women’s rights are undervalued, traffickers exploit the systemic devaluation of women’s labor and autonomy to fuel their operations.

Lex Initiative’s Intersectional Feminist Approach

Recognizing these intersecting vulnerabilities, Lex Initiative adopts an intersectional feminist approach to combat human trafficking. Our advocacy goes beyond addressing trafficking as a standalone issue—it focuses on the systemic inequalities that enable it to thrive.

  1. Empowering Marginalized Women: Through socio-economic programs, we equip women with skills, resources, and opportunities to break free from cycles of exploitation. Initiatives like business registration support and financial literacy training help women attain economic independence, reducing their susceptibility to trafficking.
  2. Legal Advocacy for Justice: Lex Initiative offers pro bono legal services and conducts legal education sessions to ensure marginalized women know their rights and have access to justice. Our work with women in prisons—many of whom are victims of trafficking—highlights the importance of decriminalizing survival activities like sex work or drug-related offenses.
  3. Intersectional Awareness in Legal Representation: By training female lawyers and paralegals in gender-responsive and intersectional advocacy, we ensure that legal practitioners understand the unique challenges faced by marginalized women. This approach amplifies the voices of those often silenced and ensures equitable representation in legal processes.
  4. Community-Based Interventions: Our LILO (Looking In, Looking Out) Inclusion Workshops foster self-advocacy and agency among marginalized groups, building resilience and empowering participants to lead the fight against trafficking in their communities.

The Way Forward: Advocacy and Collective Action

To effectively combat human trafficking, we must address its root causes and dismantle the systems of inequality that sustain it. Governments, civil society organizations, and individuals must collaborate to:

  • Strengthen policies that protect marginalized women and ensure traffickers are held accountable.
  • Invest in education and economic opportunities for women in vulnerable communities.
  • Challenge societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality and discrimination.

At Lex Initiative, we believe that ending human trafficking is not just about rescuing victims; it’s about creating a society where no woman is ever at risk. By adopting an intersectional feminist approach, we are not only addressing the symptoms of trafficking but also uprooting the systemic injustices that allow it to persist.

On Anti-Trafficking Day, let us renew our commitment to justice, dignity, and equality for all women. Together, we can break the chains of exploitation and build a world where every woman can thrive.

About the Authors:
Augusta Yaakugh Esq. and Green Chizoba, .O, Esq. are passionate advocates for human rights and intersectional justice. As legal practitioners with Lex Initiative, they work to empower marginalized women and combat systemic inequalities that fuel trafficking.

The Legal Challenges Trans Women Face in Navigating the Justice System in Nigeria

In Nigeria, the justice system is complex and multifaceted, with deep-seated cultural, religious, and socio-legal factors influencing the experiences of those who seek its services. For trans women, navigating this system poses significant challenges, exacerbated by existing biases, inadequate legal frameworks, and systemic discrimination. This article explores the legal barriers trans women face in accessing justice in Nigeria and highlights potential pathways for reform to ensure that justice is inclusive and equitable.

One of the foremost challenges for trans women in Nigeria is the absence of legal recognition for their gender identity. The Nigerian legal system, rooted in traditional and colonial-era statutes, does not provide mechanisms for gender recognition beyond the binary framework of male and female as defined at birth. This means that trans women cannot change their legal documents to reflect their gender identity, leading to significant complications in matters such as employment, housing, healthcare access, and participation in legal processes. The lack of legal identity further entrenches stigma and exposes trans women to misgendering and humiliation when interacting with authorities or accessing public services.

2. Discriminatory Laws and Policies

Nigeria’s legal landscape includes laws that criminalise same-sex relationships and gender non-conformity. The Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2014 criminalises not only marriages but any public display of same-sex relationships or participation in LGBTQI+ associations. Although this law does not specifically target trans individuals, its broad and ambiguous language is often used as a tool for discrimination against trans women under the guise of maintaining “public morality.”

Additionally, various state laws include provisions derived from Sharia law, which criminalise cross-dressing and gender non-conformity, with severe penalties including imprisonment or corporal punishment. Such laws create a hostile environment where trans women risk arrest and violence simply for expressing their identity.

Access to competent and non-discriminatory legal representation is another significant hurdle for trans women. Many legal practitioners in Nigeria may lack awareness of trans-specific issues or hold personal biases that impact their willingness to provide effective representation. The fear of stigma or reprisals further deters trans women from seeking legal assistance. Public defenders, already stretched thin due to high caseloads and limited resources, may be less equipped or motivated to handle cases involving trans women sensitively and effectively.

Moreover, the absence of comprehensive training in gender diversity and LGBTQI+ rights within the legal community perpetuates a cycle of ignorance and neglect. Trans women who come into contact with the justice system, whether as defendants, complainants, or victims, may be subjected to invasive questions, unfair treatment, or biased decision-making processes.

4. Harassment and Violence in Custody

Trans women often face significant risks when detained by law enforcement or imprisoned. Reports have shown that trans individuals in custody can be subjected to verbal abuse, physical violence, and sexual harassment by both law enforcement officers and fellow detainees. The absence of policies that recognise the unique needs of trans people in custody further compounds these issues, resulting in experiences marked by trauma and insecurity.

Prisons in Nigeria are typically segregated by sex, determined at birth, which means that trans women may be housed in male facilities, exposing them to heightened violence and abuse. This lack of safe, appropriate accommodations violates basic human rights and contravenes international human rights standards, including those outlined in the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Mandela Rules).

5. Economic and Social Disadvantages

Legal challenges are intertwined with broader socio-economic disadvantages that disproportionately affect trans women. Limited access to education and employment due to discrimination often leaves trans women in vulnerable financial situations, making it harder to afford legal representation or navigate lengthy court processes. Stigma and societal rejection exacerbate isolation and poverty, pushing many trans women to the margins of society where their voices are unheard, and their experiences ignored.

Pathways to Reform

Addressing the legal challenges that trans women face requires a multi-faceted approach:

  1. Legal Gender Recognition: Advocacy for laws that allow individuals to amend their legal documents to reflect their gender identity is essential. Legal recognition would enable trans women to participate in society more fully and reduce the instances of discrimination they face.
  2. Anti-Discrimination Legislation: Enacting comprehensive anti-discrimination laws that include protections for gender identity would provide trans women with legal recourse when faced with unfair treatment or violence.
  3. Training for Legal Practitioners: Instituting gender diversity and sensitivity training for judges, lawyers, and law enforcement officers would help dismantle biases and ensure that trans women are treated with respect and dignity within the justice system.
  4. Safe Custodial Policies: Creating policies that ensure trans women are placed in safe, gender-affirming facilities while in custody is crucial for protecting their human rights.
  5. Community Support and Legal Aid: Strengthening networks that provide legal aid, psychological support, and advocacy for trans women can empower individuals to pursue justice without fear of reprisal.

Conclusion

The challenges faced by trans women in Nigeria’s justice system reflect broader societal biases that must be addressed to achieve true equality. Legal reform, inclusive policies, and an unwavering commitment to human rights are essential for creating a system where justice is not only accessible but equitable for all, regardless of gender identity. By acknowledging and tackling these challenges, Nigeria can move towards a fairer, more inclusive society.

Intersectional Feminism: The Role of Trans Women in Feminist Movements in Nigeria

In recent years, the concept of intersectional feminism has gained traction in global discourse as a more comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing gender-based inequality. Yet, in Nigeria, where systemic discrimination against women persists alongside deep-rooted cultural and societal challenges, the inclusion of trans women in feminist movements remains a contentious topic. As advocates for human rights and equality, we believe that embracing intersectional feminism—an approach that recognises the overlapping systems of oppression that affect different groups—offers a path towards more effective advocacy and unity in the fight for gender equality.

Understanding Intersectional Feminism

Intersectional feminism, a term coined by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw, refers to the way various social identities—such as race, class, sexual orientation, and gender identity—intersect to create unique modes of discrimination and privilege. This approach challenges the traditional view of feminism that primarily centres on the experiences of cisgender, heterosexual women, highlighting that not all women face the same struggles or degrees of marginalisation.

In the Nigerian context, the intersectionality lens helps illustrate how gender inequality is compounded by cultural, religious, and socio-economic factors, and it pushes for a feminist movement that is inclusive of all who experience gender-based oppression. This includes trans women, who often face discrimination not only because of their gender identity but also due to the broader societal stigma associated with being LGBTQI+ in Nigeria.

The Reality for Trans Women in Nigeria

Trans women in Nigeria encounter multiple layers of marginalisation that transcend the typical challenges faced by cisgender women. These include discriminatory laws, limited access to healthcare, violence, and economic disenfranchisement. According to recent reports, trans individuals in Nigeria face heightened risks of physical and psychological violence and significant barriers to accessing basic human rights, such as healthcare and legal protections.

Excluding trans women from feminist spaces in Nigeria neglects the reality of their lived experiences and undermines the very foundation of the feminist movement: the belief in equal rights and opportunities for all women. Trans women are often at the frontlines of gender-based violence and discrimination, making their perspectives critical in conversations about safety, legal protections, and advocacy for gender equity.

Why Inclusion Matters

Some may argue that feminist advocacy in Nigeria should prioritise the experiences of cisgender women, who have historically borne the brunt of gender discrimination in society. While it is true that cisgender women face significant struggles, excluding trans women from feminist movements perpetuates a harmful hierarchy that suggests some experiences of womanhood are more valid than others. Intersectional feminism, by contrast, calls for solidarity that acknowledges and uplifts the voices of those who are doubly marginalised.

Including trans women in feminist movements strengthens collective advocacy by fostering solidarity across different experiences of oppression. When trans women are included, movements become richer in perspective, better equipped to address complex forms of discrimination, and more representative of the broader community of women. This inclusion can also lead to policy changes that reflect the needs of all women, contributing to a legal and social environment where justice and equity are prioritised.

The Role of Feminist Movements

For feminist movements in Nigeria to truly embody the principles of intersectional feminism, they must actively create spaces where trans women can share their stories, participate in advocacy efforts, and contribute to shaping the direction of gender equality work. This requires dismantling barriers to participation, fostering education around gender diversity, and challenging misconceptions that reinforce exclusion.

Moreover, collaboration between cis and trans women can lead to innovative solutions for shared challenges, such as fighting gender-based violence and advocating for equal access to healthcare. By amplifying the voices of trans women and recognising their role in feminist movements, we make strides towards an inclusive society where every woman’s rights are defended and upheld.

Conclusion

Intersectional feminism is not just an academic theory; it is a call to action that asks us to confront all forms of discrimination and to advocate for a world where everyone can live with dignity. The inclusion of trans women in feminist movements is an essential step in this direction. In Nigeria, where the struggle for gender equality is ongoing, intersectional feminism can be a transformative force that unites diverse voices and strengthens the collective push for justice.

We urge feminist leaders, advocates, and policymakers in Nigeria to embrace the principles of intersectional feminism and to recognise that the fight for gender equality must be inclusive. Only then can we build a movement that is reflective of all women’s realities and is equipped to challenge the structural inequalities that persist in our society.

Augusta Yaakugh Esq. and Green Chizoba Esq. are human rights lawyers and advocates for marginalised women.