Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu has called for the protection of the rights of the girl child in commemoration of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.
In a special message, the First Lady reminded parents and stakeholders of their responsibilities of upholding the dignity of their children especially girls.
She said: “As we commemorate the 2025 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), with the theme, Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to protect the rights and dignity of girls and women.”
The Wife of President Tinubu stressed that Genital mutilation is a violation of the rights of girls, which has consequences.
“Female genital mutilation is a human rights violation and has no health benefits.
“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 explained.
The First Lady urged stakeholders to do more in the bid to curb or end Genital mutilation.
She said; “Although Nigeria has made significant strides toward eliminating FGM, due to the collaborative efforts of the government, UNFPA/UNICEF Joint Programme, civil society, traditional Institution 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 diginity. We must recognize that every person, regardless of gender, deserves to live free from fear, discrimination, and violation,.”
Mrs Tinubu also used the opportunity to call for stronger collaboration in the quest to end the old tradition of genital mutilation.
She said; “This year’s theme calls for renewed commitment, stronger partnerships, and continued investment to end this harmful practice.
“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 Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, 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,” Mrs Tinubu advised.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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