While assisted reproductive technologies (ART) offer promising solutions for couples facing infertility, experts stress that Nigeria continues to face complex ethical and religious challenges in implementing these developments responsibly.

According to experts, a balanced approach is essential to align medical progress with societal values. For example, ART should not only offer hope but also fit in with the cultural and moral frameworks of the country.

During an open house discussion on fertility treatments and surrogacy, marking World IVF Day and the 7th anniversary of Clearview Hospital and Fertility Clinic, participants stressed that this careful integration is crucial to advancing reproductive health care while respecting the diverse beliefs in Nigeria.

“Many couples suffer in silence because they fear judgment. The stigma surrounding IVF and infertility treatments in some religious communities is a major issue,” explained Busola Jegede, an apostle and convener of Daughter of Destiny Interdenominational.

“We need to create an environment where people feel comfortable seeking help and discussing their options,” Jegede said.

She also said, “Waiting 15 or 20 years to address infertility is unnecessary when solutions are available. Early intervention can help couples start families sooner and raise their children during their most active years.”

Jegede addressed denominational differences and emphasized the need for religious teachings to adapt to modern medical developments. “We need to respect our faith traditions while embracing the medical options that are available to us,” she said. “It’s about finding a balance and providing our congregations with the best possible support.”

Ridwan Jamiu, Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, stressed the moral dimensions of fertility treatments and the importance of aligning medical interventions with religious teachings. “Assisted reproductive technologies must be within the bounds of justice,” Jamiu said. “While technology can help overcome infertility, it should not compromise the purity of lineage and family structures.”

Jamiu pointed out that ART is generally permissible and helps people have children, but Islamic teachings generally prohibit practices such as surrogacy and sperm donation, which are seen as incompatible with the sanctity of marriage and family history.

“The Islamic perspective is that such practices are haram (forbidden). Artificial insemination or surrogacy involves elements that are not permitted within the religion. It is essential to adhere to ethical and religious guidelines to protect the integrity of family and societal values.”

He also warned of the potential exploitation of economically disadvantaged women who may resort to surrogacy out of financial desperation. “Many women are potentially being exploited because of their financial situation,” warned one participant. “We must ensure that any practice of surrogacy is strictly regulated to prevent exploitation and ensure fair treatment.”

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From a legal perspective, La-Olu Osanyin, lawyer and vice-president of the World Association of Medical Law, stressed the need for robust regulation.

“Science often moves faster than the law. We need clear rules to ensure ethical practices and protect all parties involved, especially children,” he said.

Osanyin noted that while Lagos State has made progress in ethical guidelines for ART, national legislation remains fragmented and inadequate.

“We need a holistic approach that involves all stakeholders, including medical professionals, religious leaders and legal experts,” Osanyin argued.

He added that current regulations are patchy and often lack the necessary input from key stakeholders, particularly regarding the ethical complexities surrounding surrogacy. “Commercial surrogacy is a contentious issue,” he noted.

“While altruistic surrogacy is more acceptable, there should be compensation for the pain and suffering of the surrogate mother, without commercializing the process.”

Discussing access and treatment, Kunle Ajayi, Managing Director and CEO of Clearview Hospital and Fertility Clinic, said: “Access to fertility treatment and surrogacy services remains a major issue despite significant progress in IVF in Nigeria, with over 50 centres offering the treatment in Lagos alone.”

Ajayi noted that “IVF has become an established science since the 1980s. Despite these advances, success rates vary, mainly influenced by the age of the woman, with higher success in women under 35.”

He added that surrogacy is also gaining popularity, although less common than traditional IVF. “We practice surrogacy, where we make sure that there is no genetic link between the surrogate and the embryo,” he explained.

Moving forward, the vision for IVF services in Nigeria remains ambitious. Clinics strive to provide first-class services with a focus on safety, respect, integrity and empathy. “Our goal is to be the leading provider of pediatric services in Nigeria and beyond,” Ajayi said.