As part of activities marking the 2026 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria (TBI) on Friday, 6 February 2026, engaged students of Ifelodun Community Grammar School (Muslim) in a sensitization programme aimed at promoting the total abandonment of the harmful traditional practice.
The engagement marked the conclusion of a three-day sensitization campaign, which commenced on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, reinforcing the organization’s sustained commitment to protecting the rights, health, and dignity of girls and women.
The programme was implemented in line with the global theme for 2026:
“Toward 2030: No End to Female Genital Mutilation Without Commitment and Investment.”
Welcoming the Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria team to the school, Mrs. Adeniyi Opeyemi expressed appreciation for the organization’s consistent advocacy against FGM and other harmful traditional practices. She introduced members of the school staff present, acknowledged the presence of the Executive Director of Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria, Dr. Dare Olagoke-Adaramoye, and formally welcomed members of the visiting team. She commended TBI for its dedication to the protection of the girl child and the promotion of human rights.
The sensitization session was led by Mrs. Bamydele Oluwapelumi, who delivered an engaging and educative presentation on Female Genital Mutilation. She explained the meaning and types of FGM, as well as its serious health, psychological, and social consequences. She stressed that the global target year 2030 represents a critical deadline that can only be achieved through sustained commitment, adequate investment, and collective action at all levels of society.
An interactive exercise was conducted during the session to demonstrate how information spreads within communities, helping students understand their potential role as change agents and advocates against FGM. The exercise emphasized the importance of speaking out, educating peers, and protecting younger girls from harmful practices.
Further enlightenment was provided by Mrs. Aishat, who educated the students on the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, highlighting the legal implications of practicing FGM in Nigeria. She emphasized that FGM is not only harmful but also a punishable offence under Nigerian law.
Teachers present at the event, including Mrs. Ogunsola and Mrs. Adeniyi, encouraged the students to take seriously the lessons shared and to uphold the values of dignity, respect, and protection of the girl child.
During the interactive segment, several students publicly made commitments to reject and speak against FGM. Oladiti Mary (Student) pledged to align her actions with the global theme and support efforts to end FGM, while Opeyemi Iyanu (student) promised to consistently speak out against the practice wherever she finds herself and advocate for its complete abandonment.
Speaking on behalf of the school principal, Mrs. Ogunsola expressed deep appreciation to Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria for its impactful intervention and commitment to safeguarding the future of young girls.
The engagement underscored the power of education in shaping informed attitudes and protecting future generations. It reaffirmed that ending Female Genital Mutilation is a shared responsibility, and when young people are informed, empowered, and engaged, meaningful and lasting change becomes possible.
