The University of Ibadan (UI) has expressed serious concern over a growing trend among female students who are increasingly turning to egg donation as a means of income, warning of potential health risks and ethical concerns.
In a memo dated April 15, 2025 the University Health Service raised the alarm at how students are being recruite often through agents or agencies to donate eggs for In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) procedures.
The internal memo, signed by Dr. Aderonke Ajayi, Director of the University Health Service, acknowledged the role of egg donation in helping families battling infertility but cautioned that it should not be commercialised or viewed as a “side hustle.”
“Egg donation involves the use of hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries, and this comes with short-term health risks such as abdominal pain, bloating, mood swings, and a potentially life-threatening condition known as Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS),” Ajayi noted.
She further warned of other complications including infections, internal bleeding, ovarian torsion, and psychological distress, urging students to prioritise their health and seek medical guidance before considering such procedures.
UI’s management stressed the need for students to explore safer, long-term income alternatives and called for increased regulation of fertility agencies operating within university environments.
