In a united call to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria, in collaboration with UNICEF and the Oyo State Government, has charged stakeholders including male allies, female survivors, parents, caregivers, and community leaders to stop cutting the future of the girl-child and instead promote her education and wellbeing.
The charge was made during a one-day orientation and inauguration meeting for 20 male champions and 20 female FGM survivors from five focal communities in Ido Local Government Area. The event was held at Joyful Family Church Hall, Baba Agba, Ido, Ibadan.
Speaking through the Programme Manager, Mrs. Mojisola Omotoye, the Executive Director of Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria, Dr. Dare Olagoke Adaramoye, emphasised that “what the girl-child needs is education, not mutilation.”
“Educate the girl-child and not mutilate her. Mutilation is a violation of her rights and a destruction of her future. So, leave her clitoris and give her the education she deserves,” she said passionately.
Dr. Adaramoye explained that the event was convened to engage men as champions for change and to empower female survivors to form a network that will advocate against the practice and receive livelihood support to sustain the movement.
“FGM is a harmful cultural practice with no health benefit,” he said. “Despite the cultural attachment, evidence has shown its grave consequences. The way forward is through continuous community sensitization, education, and enlightenment.”
Representing the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, UNICEF Programme Officer, Mrs. Adediran Celestina Oluwawemimo, emphasized the importance of awareness.
“This workshop is timely and essential, especially in Oyo State. We must keep sensitizing people, particularly at the grassroots, like those in Oke-Ogun communities, about the dangers and long-term complications of FGM.”
She reiterated the state government’s commitment to eradicating FGM through consistent awareness campaigns and community engagement.
Also lending his voice, a participant from the Men’s Engagement Alliance, Pastor Eniola Oluwakayode, condemned FGM as a harmful traditional practice that must be stopped.
“As men, we will take this message back to our communities and educate others. Circumcising our girls is wrong and should not continue,” he declared.
On behalf of the FGM survivors, Mrs. Eniola Oluwawemimo stated that the knowledge gained has empowered her and others to speak out against the practice.
“Beyond the pain and trauma, FGM exposes girls to infections and complications that can ruin their future and destiny. It must stop,” she concluded.
The event marks a significant step in Oyo State’s grassroots campaign to eliminate FGM and promote the rights, health, and dignity of every girl-child.
