The Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunity Commission (PLASGEOC) has expressed concern over an alleged rise in the sale of egg cells by young women and female students to fertility clinics across the state.
The commission said its findings indicate that the practice has become increasingly common among some young women, including those in tertiary institutions, who reportedly undergo egg donation procedures in exchange for money.
Speaking during a Hausa-language programme, Mutattauna, aired on Unity FM in Jos on Tuesday, the commission’s Head of Information Unit, Mrs. Olivia Dung, alleged that a fertility facility in the state has been involved in obtaining egg cells from young women.
According to her, some women are reportedly motivated by financial gains, using the proceeds to fund personal expenses and maintain certain lifestyles.
Dung claimed that individuals who donate their ova receive payments ranging between N120,000 and N150,000. She described the situation as exploitative and classified it as a form of gender-based violence that could expose young women to health and other long-term consequences.
She said the commission has already launched awareness campaigns in schools and communities to educate young women about the potential dangers associated with the practice.
As part of the campaign, PLASGEOC has engaged the management of several higher institutions in the state. Dung disclosed that discussions have already been held with authorities at the Polytechnic Barkin Ladi, the College of Education Gindiri, and the University of Education Pankshin, while plans are underway to meet with officials of the University of Jos.
She noted that students have been sensitised on the issue and advised against selling their egg cells for financial reasons.
“The challenge is not limited to local communities alone; it is also prevalent in educational institutions,” she said.
The commission further called on parents, guardians, and community leaders to pay closer attention to the welfare and activities of young girls. Dung linked the increasing cases of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in some communities to what she described as inadequate parental guidance and supervision.
She urged families to take greater responsibility for raising and monitoring their children, stressing that individuals found engaging in activities that violate the rights and safety of others would be held accountable under the law.
The development has sparked renewed discussions around reproductive health, ethical practices in fertility services, and the need for stronger public awareness on issues affecting young women in Plateau State.
