In a major step toward strengthening community-led efforts to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Oyo State, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, and the Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria (TBI) have rolled out a new capacity-building exercise for survivor groups in Pegba Community, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The initiative, part of an ongoing UNICEF-supported project implemented through the Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development is designed to empower survivors with the skills, knowledge, and support systems needed to lead advocacy and drive behavioural change within their communities.
Speaking during the Programme, Executive Director, Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria, Dr. Dare Olagoke-Adaramoye, expressed deep appreciation to UNICEF Nigeria and the Ekiti State Government for their unwavering partnership in the fight against FGM.
“By equipping survivors with new skills and support systems, we are strengthening the frontline of our anti-FGM movement and accelerating the progress toward a future where no girl is cut,” Dr. Dare stated.
He further commended the Oluyole Survivors’ Network for their courage, resilience, and consistent grassroots advocacy, describing them as vital champions in the collective effort to end FGM across Oyo State.
Director of Child Welfare, Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairsand Social Development, Mrs. Bolanle Asubiojo praised the collaboration and encouraged survivors to stay committed, noting that their work is shaping a safer future for girls in the region.
Similarly, UNICEF Desk Officer, Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs, Mr. Tolu Oguniniyi, also commended TBI and the survivor network for the “remarkable testimonies” emerging from the community.
He urged participants to remain steadfast and to openly share any challenges affecting their advocacy efforts.
The training featured an intensive technical session where survivors were equipped with improved communication, advocacy, leadership, and community mobilization skills.
Participants were also linked to essential health, psychosocial, legal, and livelihood services to enhance their empowerment and long-term wellbeing.
One of the Survivor, Mrs. Opeyemi Aderenle expressed enthusiasm at hosting the TBI team and visiting officials from Ekiti State, describing the engagement as uplifting and reinforcing their determination to continue championing abandonment of FGM.
The meeting ended with renewed hope, strengthened partnerships, and a reaffirmed commitment to accelerating community-driven initiatives aimed at ending all forms of FGM in Oyo State.
