The Kwara State Government has renewed its commitment to eradicating Female Genital Mutilation, FGM, through a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ review meeting in Ilorin, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Opeyemi Oluwakemi Afolashade, emphasized that ending FGM requires collaboration between government, traditional and religious leaders, civil society, law enforcement, and community members.

Afolashade highlighted that the state has strengthened enforcement of the Violence Against Persons Act and the Child Rights Law, carried out advocacy visits to schools, markets, and religious organisations, and appointed FGM eradication champions to ensure community-level commitment. She also announced plans for an FGM Convention to mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM.

Officials stressed the importance of accurate data, with the Ministry of Health calling for surveys to identify practitioners, while the National Human Rights Commission reported intensified awareness campaigns. Legal challenges were noted, including family interference with prosecutions, prompting calls for alternative livelihoods for FGM practitioners.

FGM, which involves partial or total removal of female genitalia for non-medical reasons, is typically performed on girls from infancy to 15 years and violates their rights to health, safety, and dignity. The Kwara State Government says ongoing measures aim to protect girls and ensure full compliance with national laws.