𝗚𝗼𝘃 𝘄𝗶𝗳𝗲’𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 𝘀𝗲𝗲𝗸𝘀 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗙𝗚𝗠

By Prosper Mene

The Nigeria Governors’ Spouses’ Forum (NGSF) has called for unified and sustained action across all sectors to completely eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria.

In a press statement issued to mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation on February 6, 2026, the Forum’s Chairperson and wife of the Kwara State Governor, Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to ending this harmful practice.

Describing FGM as a grave violation of fundamental human rights, as well as a significant public health and development issue, the Forum emphasized the urgent need for collective efforts. The Key demands include:

Increased and sustained investment in nationwide elimination programs

Stronger enforcement of existing laws prohibiting FGM

Survivor-centered support, including health, psychosocial, and legal services

Community-led prevention initiatives and behavior-change campaigns

The statement is in line with global observances under the theme of accelerating progress toward the UN’s goal of ending FGM by 2030, highlighting the need for long-term commitment from governments, civil society, traditional leaders, and communities.

FGM remains a persistent challenge in parts of Nigeria, particularly in certain regions where cultural norms and traditions perpetuate it. The NGSF’s renewed push builds on ongoing national efforts, including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and collaborations with international partners like UNICEF and UNFPA.

The Forum urged all stakeholders, policymakers, religious and traditional leaders, healthcare providers, and families to join forces in protecting girls and women from this form of gender-based violence.