Efforts to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Kwara State gained fresh momentum as traditional rulers, men, and women in Shao community, Moro Local Government Area, pledged their support for ongoing government campaigns to eradicate the harmful practice.

At a town hall meeting themed “Building the Capacity of Men and Boys as Champions of Change”, the Kwara State Ministry of Social Development, in collaboration with the Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation (GLOHWOC) and supported by UNICEF, rallied key stakeholders to strengthen their advocacy against FGM.

Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Social Development, the Director of Social Development in the Ministry, Mr James Kayode, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting the health and rights of women and girls. He called on men to become advocates for change in their communities.

“Ending FGM is not just the responsibility of women alone. Men must see themselves as protectors, not promoters of this harmful culture,” Kayode said.

Dr Christy Abayomi Oluwole, CEO of GLOHWOC, highlighted the four types of FGM and the long-term physical and psychological harm it causes. She explained that the use of unsterilized tools can lead to infections, severe bleeding, and in some cases, death. She also emphasized the lack of religious basis for the practice, noting it is rooted solely in culture and tradition.

“FGM is neither Islamic nor Christian. It is a dangerous cultural practice that must end. Communities need to understand the risks and join hands to stop it completely,” she said.

Also speaking, former Director of the National Orientation Agency in Kwara State, Mr Olusegun Adeyemi, urged the men and boys present to lead the charge against FGM.

“Men are fathers, husbands, and leaders. We have the power to end this practice by speaking out and refusing to support it in our homes and communities,” he said.

During an advocacy visit to the palace of the Ohoro of Shao, HRH Oba Job Obalowu Atolagbe, the traditional ruler commended the efforts of the organisers and called for the periodic training of health workers involved in circumcision to avoid harmful practices. He urged the government to intensify its awareness campaigns and enforce sanctions to deter FGM.

“I support the call to end FGM. But we must also ensure health workers are properly trained so that safe practices are observed even in male circumcision. Government must act decisively,” the monarch said.

Participants, including FGM survivors and former practitioners, expressed their willingness to support the movement. They signed a pledge card, symbolising their personal commitment to join the campaign against FGM in their communities.