Ekiti First Lady Urges Stronger Action to End Female Genital Mutilation
The First Lady of Ekiti State has called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts toward ending female genital mutilation (FGM), stressing the need to safeguard the rights, health, and dignity of girls across the state.
Speaking during an advocacy engagement focused on the protection of women and children, the First Lady emphasized that eliminating the practice requires a unified approach that combines legal enforcement, community education, and sustained public awareness. She noted that while progress has been made in combating FGM, deeper collaboration is essential to completely eradicate the harmful tradition.
According to her, existing legal frameworks provide a solid foundation for protecting girls from the practice, but stronger implementation and community-level advocacy remain critical. She urged leaders at all levels to leverage these laws to deter violations and promote behavioral change.
“Female genital mutilation is not only a violation of human rights but also a serious public health concern,” she stated. “We must continue to speak out, educate our communities, and ensure that every girl is protected from practices that endanger her future.”
The First Lady further highlighted the importance of empowering families with accurate information about the medical and psychological consequences of FGM. She encouraged parents and guardians to reject the practice and support initiatives aimed at promoting the well-being of the girl child.
Stakeholders present at the event reaffirmed their commitment to supporting government-led and civil society initiatives designed to end FGM. Many underscored the influential role of traditional and religious institutions in reshaping cultural norms and protecting vulnerable children.
The renewed call aligns with broader national and global efforts to eliminate FGM, a practice widely condemned for its long-term health risks and human rights implications. Advocates continue to push for stronger awareness, policy enforcement, and grassroots engagement to bring an end to the practice.
