As a human rights violation, Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, has called for an end to female genital mutilation (FGM).
Mrs. Tinubu reportedly criticized the report that Nigeria has 20 million female genital mutilation victims, the largest number in the world.
Senator Tinubu stated in a statement through her spokesperson, Busola Kukoyi, that female genital mutilation should be prohibited because it is harmful to one’s health.
According to the First Lady, the theme of the 2025 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM, served as a reminder of our collective duty to defend the rights and dignity of women and girls.
There are no health advantages to female genital mutilation, and it violates human rights. Over 20 million women and girls have experienced FGM in Nigeria, which has the greatest absolute number of FGM cases worldwide, according to UNFPA. If precautions are not taken, an additional 14 million girls could be at danger of FGM by 2030.
Nigeria has made great progress in ending FGM thanks to the cooperation of the government, UNFPA/UNICEF Joint Program, civil society, traditional institutions, and community leaders, but much more needs to be done, she said.
According to Mrs. Tinubu, violence against women is a problem that affects all people, not just women.
We must never forget that violence against women is a problem that affects all people, not just women. It damages our common ideals of dignity and respect, which have an impact on everyone. We must acknowledge that everyone deserves to live without fear, prejudice, or violation, regardless of gender.In order to eradicate this detrimental habit, this year’s theme urges for a renewed dedication, more robust collaborations, and ongoing funding.
By forming cross-sectoral partnerships, empowering survivors, and making sure that women and young people take the lead, we will fortify the fight against FGM, she said.
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President Bola Tinubu’s administration is still dedicated to putting an end to FGM, according to First Lady Oluremi.
“I will keep pushing for the assistance that is required. Our strongest voice is that of the whole, and if we work together, we can eradicate FGM from Nigeria.
For the sake of our women, our girls, and a future free from female genital mutilation, she continued, “let’s keep working together.”