The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) B Zone chapter, has called for an end to the archaic and babaric practice of female genital mutilation.
This was contained in the association’s zonal statement to mark 2024 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation with its theme ‘Her Voice, Her Future’.
The statement, which was signed by the B ZONE’s Vice National Chairperson, Adeola Adekunle and Zonal Secretary, Adeola Adewole, explained that Female Genital Mutilation is an age long practice that violates the right of girls and women with long term physical and psychological trauma posed on the victims.
The statement called on stakeholders to amplify the voices of the underpriviledged and also ensure an abundance of opportunities for women and girls by prioritizing matters that affect them.
The statement added that despite the various laws passed by lawmakers on violence against girls and women in all states of the federation, little or no attention is paid to its implementation and enforcement.
It wonders why there is a rise in the practice, despite countless strides in place towards prevention of this menace.
The zonal vice Chairperson appealed to government at all levels to enforce existing laws and implement policies that safeguard the rights of girls and women.
Comrade Adeola stressed that unless efforts to end the practice of female genital mutilation is intensified, the number of girls at risk is projected to rise.
“NAWOJ B ZONE pledges to use its platform to amplifying voices in the campaign against Female Genital Mutilation.FGM”
“Let us shift the focus to positive growth centered on contributions for women and girls all over the world.”
