Female genital mutilations in Nigeria threatens the health, rights, and dignity of millions of girls and women. Yet, despite the laws and many years of advocacy, it continues to happen in some communities. According to UNICEF:
‘Nigeria has the third highest burden of FGM globally and accounts for 10% of the 200 million women and girls’ survivors of FGM globally, estimated at nearly 20 million. Despite critical progress being made in eliminating FGM and a significant decrease in the national prevalence among women and girls aged 15–49, latest estimates show that progress needs to be at least 10 times faster to meet the global target of FGM elimination by 2030. ‘
The blog outlines the steps to address this issue and create lasting change.
Understanding Female Genital Mutilations in Nigeria
FGM is a procedure that involves partial or total removal of the external genitalia of the female with no medical indications. This practice is deep-rooted in Nigeria because of strong cultural beliefs, social norms, and gender inequality. According to NDHS, 20% of the women aged 15–49 have undergone FGM. This practice is dangerous, with serious health risks such as infections, complications at birth, and even psychological trauma.
FGM is a problem of violation of human rights, not medical. To ensure discontinuation, all policy framers, journalists, and the community join in this respect.
Strengthening Laws to End Female Genital Mutilations in Nigeria
Nigeria outlawed FGM with the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act of 2015. However, enforcement remains weak, especially in rural areas where the practice is most common. To make these laws effective:
- Governments must train law enforcement officers to recognize and act on FGM cases.
- Community leaders should be involved in raising awareness about legal consequences.
- Legislators should prioritize resources for programs targeting FGM elimination.
Without proper implementation, laws alone cannot stop FGM. Strengthening local enforcement is critical to protecting vulnerable girls.
Empowering Communities to Challenge FGM Practices
Change in social norms is needed to eradicate Female Genital Mutilations in Nigeria. Most communities are holding on to FGM as a rite of passage or a way to control female sexuality. Empowerment through education is a key solution:
- Engage Traditional Leaders: Traditional and religious leaders are influential in many communities in Nigeria. Engaging them in the process can help change cultural perceptions.
- Educate Families: Many parents circumcise their daughters due to the fear of social ostracism. Awareness campaigns that explain the dangers and offer alternatives to harmful traditions.
- Involve Survivors: Let the victims of FGM share their personal experiences in relation to physical and emotional torture. Their voices can inspire change.
Empowered communities are more likely to reject FGM and protect future generations. Empowered communities are more likely to reject FGM and protect future generations.
Improving Access to Health Services
Health services play a dual role in preventing FGM and supporting survivors. Many healthcare workers lack training to handle FGM cases sensitively or report incidents effectively. Addressing this gap is vital:
- Train Healthcare Providers: Equip doctors, nurses, and midwives with skills to identify and treat FGM complications while advocating against the practice.
- Provide Survivor Support: Establish counseling centers and medical facilities to care for FGM survivors.
- Incorporate FGM Prevention in Healthcare Policies: Public health campaigns should emphasize the dangers of FGM and offer alternatives rooted in health and human rights.
Accessible healthcare can reduce the prevalence of FGM while improving outcomes for survivors.
Using Data to Drive Advocacy Efforts
Reliable data is essential for advocacy and policymaking. Statistics on Female Genital Mutilations in Nigeria help stakeholders understand the scale of the problem and measure progress.
- Conduct Regular Surveys: Surveys like NDHS should include specific questions on FGM to track its prevalence over time.
- Share Findings Publicly: Data should be accessible to policymakers, journalists, and the public. Transparency drives accountability.
- Focus on High-Prevalence States: Resources should target areas like Osun, Ekiti, and Ebonyi states, where FGM rates are highest.
Data-driven advocacy ensures that efforts to end FGM are strategic and impactful.
The Role of Journalists and Policymakers
Journalists and policymakers have the power to amplify the fight against FGM.
- Journalists: Investigative reporting can expose communities where FGM persists, sparking public outrage and action. Positive stories about FGM-free communities can inspire change elsewhere.
- Policymakers: Laws and budgets must reflect a commitment to ending FGM. Adequate funding for education, healthcare, and advocacy programs is essential.
Both groups should collaborate with NGOs and grassroots organizations to reach vulnerable populations.
Conclusion
Ending Female Genital Mutilations in Nigeria requires strong laws, empowered communities, accessible healthcare, and data-driven advocacy. Together, these strategies can protect millions of girls from harm and uphold their rights.
Visit genderpedia.ng/shop to access resources on FGM prevention and other gender equality issues.
References
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