By Ruth Adebayo
In a bid to eradicate the harmful practices of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and circumcision, the Office of the First Lady of Kwara State, sponsored by Her Excellency Ambassador Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq, in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Ministry of Health, Ajike Foundation, and Ministry of Women Affairs, has embarked on an outreach program.
Titled “Setup the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM,” the outreach aims to create awareness about the dangers of FGM and circumcision.
It is also part of the First Lady’s efforts to improve the health, well-being, and empowerment of girls and women in Kwara State.
The office warned sternly against FGM and women’s circumcision, explaining that it is against the law, a crime, a violation of human rights and not a requirement of any religion.
The message was conveyed in different languages to facilitate understanding for everyone hearing it.
The outreach covered various parts of Ilorin, including Basin, Sango, Kunlende market, Ipata market, Emir’s road among others.
FGM is a serious human rights issue that affects millions of girls and women worldwide, causing physical harm, emotional harm, cancer and even untimely death.
The practice is still prevalent in some parts of Nigeria, including Kwara State.
The First Lady’s outreach program is a crucial step towards commemorating the International Day for Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation and promoting a safer, healthier future for girls and women in Kwara State.
