As Nigeria joins the global community in marking the Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has renewed its call for collective action to eradicate the practice.
Speaking in Abuja, NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls.
He emphasized that FGM is a harmful and degrading tradition that causes lifelong physical and psychological trauma.
Dr. Ojukwu highlighted NHRC’s past efforts, including collaborations with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Civil Resource Development and Documentation Centre (CIRDDOC).
In 2017, they developed a Training Manual on human rights and FGM to educate communities on the dangers of the practice and ways to report cases.
“The manual provides a clear understanding of FGM as a form of violence against women and girls. It also guides authorities on how to handle reported cases effectively,” he explained.
With the support of UNFPA and UNICEF, the NHRC has trained key stakeholders in Imo, Ebonyi, Osun, Oyo, and Ekiti states, and reports indicate significant progress in tackling FGM in these regions.
The Commission plans to expand this initiative to other states where FGM is still prevalent.
Beyond these efforts, the NHRC has also partnered with the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative to investigate and address cases of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
This initiative has empowered survivors, providing them with skills and business opportunities to help them regain independence.
Dr. Ojukwu urged all Nigerians to be vigilant and report cases of FGM and other human rights violations.
“We all have a role to play in ending FGM. If you witness or suspect a case, report it immediately to the NHRC. Together, we can protect the rights of our women and girls.”
Female Genital Mutilation is a violation of human rights.
Join the fight today! If you know someone at risk or a victim, report it to the NHRC. Your voice can save lives.
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