NIGERIA GOVERNORS’ SPOUSES RENEW FIGHT TO END FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION.(PHOTO).

 🚫✋ Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Renew Fight to End Female Genital Mutilation.

The Nigeria Governors’ Spouses’ Forum (NGSF) has restated its strong commitment to the total eradication of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria, describing the practice as a grave violation of human rights and a major public health and development challenge.

In a statement to mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, the Chairperson of the Forum and wife of the Kwara State Governor, Olufolake AbdulRazaq, lamented that thousands of girls and women across the country continue to suffer lifelong physical and emotional trauma caused by FGM, while many others remain at risk.

She stressed that FGM leaves permanent scars on the body and mind of girls, damaging their health, dignity and future potential. According to her, ending the harmful practice will lead to safer pregnancies and childbirth, fewer maternal and newborn complications, and better educational and economic outcomes for girls and women.

AbdulRazaq emphasised that FGM is not a cultural practice but an act of violence against girls who should be protected. She called on governments at all levels, traditional and religious leaders, parents, educators, health workers and community leaders to move beyond awareness campaigns to concrete action and accountability.

She added that the NGSF is pushing for increased investment to end FGM nationwide, stronger enforcement of existing laws, survivor-centred health and psychosocial support, and community-driven prevention initiatives.

“No girl should be made to suffer pain under the guise of culture,” she said, urging Nigerians to act with urgency and collective resolve to end FGM in all its forms.