The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ending Female Genital Mutilation in the state, calling for a coordinated multi sectoral strategy as it reviews its 2026 to 2030 Action Plan against the harmful practice.
In a statement issued by the Ministry Press Secretary Iyanu Lawal, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Opeyemi Oluwakemi Afolashade, made the call during a stakeholders review meeting in Ilorin. Represented by the Director of Personnel Finance and Supply, Rasheed Ubandawaki, the commissioner stressed that eradicating Female Genital Mutilation requires collective responsibility.
She explained that the government remains resolute in its determination to eliminate the practice and other harmful social norms affecting women and children. According to her, the fight cannot be left to government alone but must involve traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, law enforcement agencies and community members.
Afolashade highlighted the administration commitment through the enforcement of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act and the Child Rights Law. She noted that advocacy visits had been conducted to first class traditional rulers across the three senatorial districts to secure their support. Champions have also been appointed to drive the eradication campaign, with oath of allegiance signed to reinforce commitment at all levels.
The ministry has extended advocacy to schools, faith based organisations and the Association of Market Men and Women in Ilorin metropolis, while also sensitising practitioners across the state to end the practice at the grassroots.
Other stakeholders including representatives from the Ministry of Health, the National Human Rights Commission and the Ministry of Justice emphasised the need for accurate data, stronger law enforcement and alternative livelihoods for practitioners.
Female Genital Mutilation involves the partial or total removal of the female external genitalia for non medical purposes. It is commonly performed on girls from infancy to age 15 and remains a violation of their fundamental rights to health safety and dignity.
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