Beautiful Offer, Ugly Truth: The Dangers of Egg Donation as a Side Hustle by Female Students in Nigerian Universities

In a world where the pressure to "make ends meet" pushes young people into unconventional money-making avenues, egg donation is quietly gaining popularity among female students in Nigerian Universities. On the surface, it seems like a beautiful offer—quick cash, no upfront cost, and the noble feeling of helping an infertile couple. But beneath this shiny promise lies an ugly truth that many young women only discover when it’s too late.

The Temptation: Fast Cash for a "Good Deed"

Many fertility clinics and brokers offer students large sums—ranging from ₦300,000 to ₦2 million or more per donation. For a student struggling with tuition, rent, or daily upkeep, it can feel like hitting the jackpot. Flyers, online ads, and peer referrals make it sound easy, safe, and even glamorous.But what’s often left out of the picture are the health, emotional, ethical, and long-term reproductive consequences that come with this decision.

The Risks They Don’t Emphasize

1. Hormonal Injections and Health Complications:
   To stimulate the ovaries, donors receive high doses of hormones. These can cause:
   • Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
   • Severe abdominal pain
   • Blood clots
   • Future fertility issues
2. Psychological and Emotional Fallout:
   While some students see it as “just tissue,” others face:
   • Guilt or emotional detachment
   • Identity questions later in life
   • Regret, especially if done under financial duress
3. Exploitation and Coercion:
   With students as a vulnerable group, some are coerced or misled without full understanding of:
   • Their rights
   • The long-term implications
   • The fact that some clinics may take advantage of desperation
4. Legal Ambiguities and Lack of Protection:
   In many countries, including Nigeria, legal structures around egg donation are weak or non-existent.
   • No guaranteed medical follow-up
   • No informed consent regulations
   • No enforceable contracts or emotional support systems

What Experts Are Saying

“The commercialization of egg donation is turning a deeply personal and emotional matter into a commodity. The long-term health of the donor should never be sacrificed for financial gain.”
— Dr. Maria Dolors Montserrat, Bioethics Researcher

“It’s not just about eggs. It’s about dignity, autonomy, and long-term health.”
— Obianuju Ekeocha, Author of “Target Africa”

Faith-Based Reflections

The Bible warns against the love of money:

“For the love of money is the root of all evil…” — 1 Timothy 6:10

The Quran speaks of protecting one’s body and honor:

“Do not throw yourselves into destruction…” — Surah Al-Baqarah 2:195

Both holy books encourage contentment, self-respect, and stewardship over one's body.

What Parents and Institutions Can Do

• Raise Awareness: Schools and communities must educate girls about their bodies and ethical decision-making.
• Promote Alternatives: Encourage youth entrepreneurship, skill-building, and scholarships over risky shortcuts.
• Provide Support Systems: Many students need mentorship, not just financial aid.

A Call to Young Women

Dear young queen, your body is not for sale.

You are worth more than money, more than pressure, and more than someone else's profit. Let your hustle be one that builds your future, not one that trades it away.