'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – The First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has called for intensified efforts to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), emphasizing the urgent need to protect girls and women from the devastating consequences of the harmful practice.
In a statement marking the 2025 International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, Mrs. Ododo described the practice as a serious human rights violation that continues to threaten the lives and future of millions of girls and women across the world.
She cited statistics from UNICEF, noting that over 200 million girls and women globally have survived FGM, with an alarming 25 million more at risk in the next five years, particularly in Africa. She lamented that despite ongoing global campaigns, the practice remains prevalent in many communities, including parts of Nigeria.
“This is alarming, especially considering the relentless efforts to eradicate it, particularly in Africa,” she stated, urging collective action from governments, civil society, and traditional institutions to curb the harmful tradition.
Mrs. Ododo called for increased government intervention in Kogi State, stressing the importance of policy enforcement, community education, and stronger support systems for FGM survivors. She reassured citizens that her office would continue to partner with relevant organizations to enhance advocacy efforts, promote legislation, and provide necessary support for affected individuals.
The First Lady’s message aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing national efforts to end gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices, as stakeholders push for more awareness and stronger enforcement of anti-FGM laws.
With growing advocacy and government commitment, stakeholders believe that the fight against FGM in Nigeria, particularly in states like Kogi, can gain more momentum, ensuring a safer future for girls and women.
