The Nigerian Senate has approved a 14-year jail term, with a minimum sentence of five years without an option of fine, for anyone convicted of sexually harassing students in tertiary institutions across the country.

The upper legislative chamber, on Wednesday, passed the Sexual Harassment of Students (Prevention and Prohibition) Bill, 2025 (HB.1597) after concurrence with the House of Representatives.

The legislation seeks to prevent, prohibit, and punish sexual misconduct in educational institutions while ensuring the protection of students from abuse and exploitation.

Presenting the bill, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) said the law provides a clear legal framework to safeguard students and uphold ethical standards in teacher–student relationships built on trust, authority, and respect for human dignity.

Under the new law, offenders face a maximum of 14 years imprisonment and not less than five years for serious offences, while lesser violations attract between two and five years without an option of fine.

Victims or their representatives are also empowered to file civil suits for breach of duty of care. Additionally, the bill mandates the establishment of Independent Sexual Harassment Pro