In commemoration Of International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Senator Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health has cautioned against its continous practice, saying the practice is harmful and a gross violation of human rights, causing severe physical and emotional trauma, and perpetuating inequality between the sexes.
The Sustainable Development Goals recognizes the importance of ending FGM, with a specific target to achieve this goal by 2030.
In a statement, the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of FGM on women and girls. This practice she said is a gross violation of human rights, causing severe physical and emotional trauma, and perpetuating inequality between the sexes.
Dr Banigo a Harvard trained Public Health Physician who has seen the horrific consequences of FGM on the health and well-being of girls and women says it is unacceptable that this practice continues.
The former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, who has worked closely with communities, traditional leaders, and healthcare providers to address health challenges, including FGM have seen the impact of sustained efforts and collective action in reducing the prevalence of FGM and promoting positive change.
Her initiative Protect the Girl Child which was established to protect the rights of the girl child, to eradicate violence (physical and sexual) against women and girls, in partnership with Doctors without Borders, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the Medical Women’s Association (MWAN), and other non-governmental bodies in the Women and Girls industry provides rehabilitation, counseling, and possible interventions necessary.
This year’s theme, “Step up the Pace,” emphasizes the need for collective action to end FGM. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, continues to push for laws, policies and programs that protect the rights and well-being of women and girls.
Representing Rivers West Senatorial District, Senator Banigo remains committed to using her office to amplify the voices of her constituents, who are disproportionately affected by FGM.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health emphasized the need for collaboration between stakeholders in raising awareness, educating communities, and supporting efforts to eliminate FGM in Nigeria, by promoting a future where all girls and women can thrive, free from violence, discrimination, and inequality. In her closing, Senator Banigo believes that empowering women and girls will be one of the most fundamental and critical steps in breaking the cycle of FGM in Nigeria.
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