Nigeria has the third highest number of female genital mutilation cases globally, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF. Approximately 20 million women and girls in the country have undergone the practice. This was disclosed by Celine Lafoucriere, Chief of the UNICEF Lagos Field Office, at a media dialogue in Benin City.

The two-day event, organized by the Oyo State Ministry of Information, aimed to support advocacy efforts to end female genital mutilation in Nigeria. Lafoucriere emphasized that the majority of the affected women and girls were subjected to the practice before their fifth birthday, when they were unable to consent or understand what was happening to them.

Despite being outlawed in Nigeria, female genital mutilation continues to persist in many communities, fueled by myths and tradition. Lafoucriere stressed that no culture or custom should compromise the health, rights, or future of girls. She noted that change is underway through initiatives led by the Federal Government of Nigeria in collaboration with UNICEF, and that media involvement is crucial in the campaign to eliminate the practice.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Rotimi Babalola, highlighted the importance of the media’s role in setting the agenda for society. He appealed to the media to increase their efforts in the campaign to eliminate female genital mutilation in all seven states covered by the UNICEF office.

Aderonke Olutayo, a consultant on sexual and reproductive health, advocated for the involvement of parents and men in the campaign against female genital mutilation. She emphasized that men are key decision-makers in families and that their involvement is essential to eliminating the practice. Olutayo also identified barriers to reporting and prosecuting female genital mutilation cases, including fear of reprisal, lack of safe reporting channels, and minimal arrests and prosecutions.

The campaign to end female genital mutilation in Nigeria is urgent and achievable, with the media playing a critical role in raising awareness and promoting change. As efforts continue to eliminate the practice, it is essential to address the underlying myths and traditions that perpetuate it, and to ensure that the rights and health of girls are protected.