On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called for increased efforts to end the harmful traditional practice still affecting many girls in Africa’s most populous nation.
In a press statement on Tuesday, the wife of the President acknowledged progress made so far in Nigeria, but said more work was needed to fully eradicate female genital mutilation (FGM) and protect the rights of the girl-child.
“While acknowledging the progress made in the fight against Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria, we must confront the practices that still persist, causing irreparable harm to our girls,” Senator Tinubu said.
She called upon parents, traditional and community leaders to consider the “damage and irreversible health implications” of FGM on girls and young women.
The First Lady commended State governments, NGOs, civil society and healthcare workers that have spoken out and worked to end FGM.
“As we collectively strive for the full eradication of Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria by 2030, let all hands be on deck and let us continue to speak up against this injustice done to our girls,” she stated.
