The Senate has passed for third reading a bill aimed at preventing and prohibiting sexual harassment of students in educational institutions across Nigeria. The legislation, transmitted from the House of Representatives, provides a clear legal framework for punishing offenders and safeguarding students within academic environments.

During deliberations, some lawmakers pushed for wider coverage beyond schools. Senator Adams Oshiomhole argued that sexual harassment laws should apply universally and not be limited to students, while Senator Anthony Ani described the restriction to educational institutions as a “misnomer,” noting that harassment is rampant across various sectors.

Presiding over the session, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin clarified that the legislation, being a concurrent bill, is not open to broad debate but may only be amended where necessary. He added that existing laws already address workplace harassment and related abuses.

After brief consideration, the Senate approved the bill, moving Nigeria one step closer to stronger legal protection against sexual misconduct in schools.