UNFPA calls for an end to female genital mutilation in Lagos

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is urging parents and community leaders to put an end to the harmful practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Lagos, Nigeria. UNFPA Nigeria Country Representative, Ms. Ulla Mueller, made the appeal during a sensitization walk against FGM and Gender-Based Violence in the Ashogbon community of Bariga. The event, organized in collaboration with Action Health Incorporated, aimed to raise awareness about the physical and mental health impacts of FGM and dissuade community members from engaging in the practice. FGM is deeply rooted in traditional beliefs about purity and chastity, but it causes irreversible pain and health problems for women and girls. According to UN data, over 200 million girls and women globally have undergone FGM, with Nigeria having an estimated 20 million survivors and ranking third worldwide. The sensitization walk in Ashogbon, known for its high prevalence of FGM, sought to educate the community about the health risks associated with FGM and empower them to prevent gender-based violence. Lagos State has zero tolerance for FGM and GBV and has implemented support systems to provide quality care for survivors. The partnership between UNFPA, AHI, and other stakeholders aims to eliminate FGM in Lagos and Nigeria and contribute to the global target of ending FGM by 2030. Community leaders, including Chief Patrick Moleyin of Araromi/Ashogbon, expressed their commitment to intensifying efforts to raise awareness and discourage FGM practices in the community.