The Nigerian Senate has today passed a landmark bill stipulating that any man or woman found engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor will face life imprisonment.

The new law removes the option of fines, signaling a strict zero-tolerance approach toward sexual abuse of children in the country.

Senators emphasized that the legislation is designed to protect vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse, sending a clear message that perpetrators will face the harshest consequences under Nigerian law.

The bill also calls for the establishment of preventive measures, including public awareness campaigns, educational programs, and stricter monitoring of environments where children live and study.

Child rights advocates have welcomed the development, describing it as a major step toward ending the culture of impunity surrounding sexual offenses against minors.

The passage of the bill is expected to complement existing child protection laws and strengthen Nigeria’s legal framework in addressing sexual violence and abuse.