Children’s Medical Tourism In Nigeria: Exploring The Role Of Facilitators In Ethical, Legal, And Regulatory Frameworks

Children’s Medical Tourism in Nigeria

Abstract

Children’s medical tourism is rising in Nigeria as families seek advanced care abroad due to weaknesses in the local health system. Medical Tourism Facilitators (MTFs) play a key role in this process, yet their largely unregulated operations pose major ethical, legal, and data-protection risks. Many operate without licensing or certification, prioritize referral fees over patient welfare, and fail to disclose conflicts of interest. These gaps endanger children in particular, as informed consent is undermined by aggressive marketing and the downplaying of medical risks. Cross-border transfers of children’s health data by MTFs also raise compliance concerns under the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023. When complications arise abroad, families face significant barriers to legal redress due to MTFs’ self-protective practices and challenges in establishing jurisdiction against foreign providers. Using doctrinal and comparative legal methods, this paper shows that existing Nigerian laws, including the Child’s Rights Act and FCCPA, inadequately regulate MTFs. It proposes a multi-level framework emphasizing mandatory professional certification, transparent vetting, active oversight, and disclosure of financial incentives. Stronger regulation is essential to protect Nigerian children and ensure MTF accountability.