Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria (TBI) has intensified its grassroots campaign against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) with a sensitisation programme for pregnant women and students in Ibadan, Oyo State, as part of activities marking this year’s International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
The advocacy sessions, organised by TBI under the leadership of its Executive Director, Dr. Dare Olagoke-Adaramoye, were held at the Iyana Church Health Centre and Oba Akinbiyi Model College School II, Mokola. The engagements aligned with the global theme, “Toward 2030: No End to Female Genital Mutilation without Commitment and Investment.”
Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Olagoke-Adaramoye said the organisation deliberately targeted pregnant women and young people because of their critical role in breaking the cycle of harmful traditional practices.
“Ending Female Genital Mutilation requires sustained grassroots engagement. When women, especially expectant mothers, understand the dangers of FGM and the laws protecting them, they become powerful defenders of their daughters and agents of change within their communities,” he said.
Dr. Adaramoye stressed that eliminating FGM is a shared responsibility, calling on families, community leaders and institutions to actively protect mothers, unborn children and the girl child.
“FGM has no medical, social or cultural benefit. Its continued practice only endangers lives, destroys families and violates the rights of women and girls. Communities must take collective ownership of protecting the girl child,” he said.
“As we move toward 2030, ending FGM will only be possible through continuous investment in education, advocacy and community action. Empowered mothers and informed young people remain our strongest allies in ensuring that no girl is subjected to this harmful practice,” he added.
Facilitating the session, Mrs. Bamydele Oluwapelumi Yetunde explained the meaning of FGM, its various forms and its severe health and psychological implications.
She also conveyed the appreciation of the Executive Director to the nurses and expectant mothers for their cooperation and willingness to engage openly.
On the legal dimension, Mrs. Mariam Okedeji educated participants on the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, emphasising that FGM is a criminal offence in Nigeria. She noted that the practice has caused lasting harm to women, families and marriages.
Adding to the advocacy, Miss Aishat encouraged participants to speak out against FGM, report suspected cases and intervene safely within their communities.
Providing medical insight, Nurse Adigun explained that women who have not undergone FGM often experience safer deliveries, while those affected may face prolonged labour and serious complications.
A total of 1,317 participants including pregnant women, health workers, students and teachers took part in the interactive sessions, which provided a safe space for learning, dialogue and the sharing of experiences on the health, psychological, legal and social consequences of FGM.
