Politics
THE First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has called for collective efforts of Nigerians to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and protection of other rights of the girl child.
In a statement issued to commemorate the 2025 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, on Thursday in Abuja, Sen. Tinubu urged stakeholders, especially parents, to be proactive in upholding the dignity of children especially the girl child.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme for the 2025 celebration of the international day is “Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM.”
“As we commemorate the 2025 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), we are reminded of our shared responsibility to protect the rights and dignity of girls and women,” she said.
The first lady said that genital mutilation was a violation of the rights of girls, which had consequences.
According to her, female genital mutilation has no health benefits.
Sen. Tinubu urged stakeholders to do more to curb or end FGM.
“Although Nigeria has made significant strides toward eliminating FGM, due to the collaborative efforts of the government, UNFPA/UNICEF Joint Programme, civil society organisations, traditional institutions and community leaders, there is still much work to be done.
“We must remember that violence against women is not just a women’s issue but an issue against humanity. It affects us all, erodes our shared values of respect and dignity.
“We must recognise that every person, regardless of gender, deserves to live free from fear, discrimination, and violation.
“According to UNFPA, Nigeria has the highest absolute number of FGM globally, with over 20 million women and girls that have undergone FGM and if care is not taken, about 14 million girls are still at risk of also experiencing this practice by 2030,” she said.
The first lady, however, promised that she would take a lead in combating the menace in Nigeria.
“Together, we will strengthen the movement against FGM by building alliances across sectors, empowering survivors, and ensuring that youth and women lead the charge.
“The administration of President Bola Tinubu, remains committed to ending FGM and I will continue to advocate for the necessary support.
“Our collective voice is our greatest strength, and with united efforts, we can achieve a Nigeria free from FGM.
“Let us continue to work together, for our girls, for our women, and for a future where Female Genital Mutilation no longer exists,” she said.(NAN)
6th February, 2025.
C.E.
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