Press Release
February 6, 2025
Stepping Up the Peace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM
As the world marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) 2025, Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to the total elimination of FGM and the protection of the rights and dignity of women and girls in Nigeria.
FGM remains a grave violation of human rights, affecting millions of women and girls worldwide. Despite ongoing efforts, the practice persists due to deep-seated cultural norms, misinformation, and social pressure. It endangers the health and well-being of girls, leading to lifelong physical, emotional, and psychological harm.
This year’s theme, “Stepping Up the Peace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM,” underscores the need for collective action. Ending FGM requires multi-sectoral collaboration, community-driven advocacy, and the engagement of traditional leaders, policymakers, health professionals, and civil society organizations to dismantle harmful traditions and enforce protective laws.
Our Call to Action
- Community Engagement: We call on families, religious and traditional leaders, and local influencers to challenge and reject harmful cultural practices.
- Strengthening Policies and Law Enforcement: The Nigerian government must ensure strict implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and other legal frameworks criminalizing FGM.
- Youth and Men as Change Agents: We must actively engage young people and men in the fight against FGM, redefining masculinity and fostering gender equality.
- Support for Survivors: We urge increased investment in psychosocial support, legal aid, and economic empowerment programs for survivors of FGM.
Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria’s Role in Ending FGM
As a frontline advocate, Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria continues to sensitize communities, empower survivors, train healthcare providers, and mobilize stakeholders to create an FGM-free future. Through strategic partnerships and grassroots interventions, we are making strides toward protecting the rights and health of Nigerian girls.
On this International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, we call on governments, organizations, and individuals to step up efforts in ending this harmful practice. The time for action is now—together, we can build a future where every girl is free to live, thrive, and achieve her dreams without fear of mutilation.
Signed,
Dr. Dare Olagoke-Adaramoye
Executive Director, Trailblazer Initiative Nigeria
