First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has renewed the call for urgent and intensified efforts to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria, describing it as a grave human rights violation with lasting physical and psychological consequences.
FGM, the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons, is widely condemned by international health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), which states that the practice offers no health benefits and causes severe harm.
Victims often suffer from chronic pain, infections, childbirth complications, and, in some cases, fatal consequences.
Nigeria’s Alarming FGM Statistics
Nigeria has one of the highest global FGM rates, ranking third worldwide, with approximately 20 million women and girls affected.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) warns that another 14 million Nigerian girls are at risk by 2030 if urgent measures are not taken.
Despite legal frameworks prohibiting FGM, the practice persists, driven by deep-rooted cultural traditions, social pressures, and misinformation.
In many communities, FGM is mistakenly believed to preserve chastity, enhance marriageability, or align with religious customs, despite having no basis in health or science.
FGM is not merely a women’s issue
During a recent address, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that FGM is not merely a women’s issue but a societal crisis that demands collective action.
She called on traditional rulers, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and civil society organizations to intensify advocacy efforts, enforce anti-FGM laws, and provide greater support for survivors.
“We cannot afford to remain silent while millions of our daughters continue to suffer from this harmful practice,” she stated.
“Ending FGM requires strong policies, community engagement, and unwavering commitment from all sectors of society.”Strengthening Legal Enforcement and Awareness
Nigeria has legal provisions against FGM, including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act of 2015, which criminalizes the practice.
However, enforcement remains weak, particularly in rural areas where cultural beliefs are deeply entrenched.
The First Lady urged stronger law enforcement, community education, and accessible support systems for affected women and girls.
She also emphasized the need for health professionals to be actively involved in identifying and reporting cases while offering medical and psychological assistance to survivors.
Eliminating FGM by 2030
As the global community works toward eliminating FGM by 2030 under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads.
Advocacy groups, government agencies, and grassroots movements must accelerate their efforts to challenge harmful norms, protect vulnerable girls, and ensure that future generations are free from this violation.
The fight against FGM is far from over, but with continued political will, education, and community-driven solutions, Nigeria has the power to eradicate the practice and safeguard the dignity and health of its women and girls.
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