The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has reiterated the federal government’s unwavering commitment to eliminating Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria. She made this declaration during a press briefing in Abuja to commemorate the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim underscored the pressing need for action, revealing that Nigeria is home to 19.9 million women and girls affected by FGM, with a prevalence rate of 20% among women aged 15 to 49. “Today is not just another international observance; it is an opportunity to reaffirm our dedication to ending one of the most egregious human rights violations—Female Genital Mutilation,” she stated.
The minister described FGM as both a public health crisis and a major development challenge, emphasizing that it hinders progress toward achieving critical Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To address the issue, she outlined the government’s comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach, which includes reinforcing legal frameworks, expanding community-based interventions, and fostering cultural and behavioral change.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim called on all stakeholders to unite in the fight against FGM, stressing that it constitutes a violation of human rights. “The battle against FGM is not the responsibility of a single ministry, organization, or sector—it is a collective effort. FGM is not culture; it is not tradition. FGM is a human rights violation. Together, let us #UNITE2ENDFGM. Together, let us ensure that every girl in Nigeria is free to live, free to dream, and free to thrive,” she urged.
The minister pledged to continue amplifying the voices of survivors, enhancing law enforcement, and promoting education and economic empowerment for women and girls. Planned initiatives include an advocacy walk to the National Assembly to engage lawmakers on strengthening legal frameworks and increasing budget allocations for anti-FGM programs. Additionally, an advocacy visit to Jigawa State is scheduled to mobilize grassroots organizations and engage community leaders in the fight against FGM.
