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Summary
NFM actively combated Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) through media literacy campaigns, stakeholder engagements, policy advocacy, a widely attended X Space discussion, and a social media campaign, emphasising the need for stronger law enforcement, awareness, and survivor support.
In a bid to combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Africa, Naija Feminist Media (NFM) engaged in a series of activities during the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, observed annually on February 6.
This initiative aligns with the United Nations‘ recognition of FGM as a violation of human rights and the integrity of girls and women. The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines FGM as “all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons.” Research by WHO has shown that FGM has no health benefits for girls and women and is associated with severe short- and long-term complications, including physical, psychological, and reproductive health issues.
Although primarily concentrated in 30 countries across Africa and the Middle East, FGM is a global issue, with occurrences in Asia and Latin America. While prevalence has declined over the past three decades, an estimated 4.4 million girls remain at risk annually. FGM persists due to deeply ingrained cultural and societal norms, often framed as a rite of passage for young girls. However, the practice is rooted in control rather than tradition, making it a pressing human rights issue rather than a cultural one.
NFM’s Strategic Initiatives
To amplify awareness and advocacy against FGM, NFM implemented a multi-pronged approach, including media literacy campaigns, stakeholder engagements, and policy advocacy.
1. Media Literacy and Awareness Campaigns
NFM leveraged digital media platforms to educate the public on the dangers of FGM. The organisation published a series of media literacy articles that provided a comprehensive overview of FGM, its types, and key facts. It also analysed FGM’s deep-seated roots in Nigeria and its impact on young girls. Additionally, NFM critiqued systemic failures in confronting misogyny, holding perpetrators accountable, and protecting girls from this harmful practice. All articles were published on the website to encourage wider accessibility and readership.
As part of its media outreach, NFM also launched a social media campaign using infographics to amplify its over 5,000 audience on social media. These infographics provided information on FGM, ensuring that awareness reached a broader audience across various digital platforms.
2. X Space Discussion
On February 14, 2025, NFM hosted an X Space titled “Beyond Policy: Eliminating the Reign of Female Genital Mutilation.” The virtual discussion had over 500 participants, including legal experts, journalists, activists, and survivors, who shared insights on the cultural and legal challenges of FGM in Nigeria.
The discussion highlighted the need for stronger law enforcement against FGM perpetrators. Experts emphasised the role of media in shifting public narratives and increasing awareness. Survivors like Ololade Ajayi shared personal testimonies, highlighting the lifelong consequences of FGM. The conversation reinforced the urgency for multi-dimensional approaches, combining policy enforcement, education, and community engagement to eradicate FGM.
3. Policy Brief Documentation
NFM developed a policy brief addressing the gaps in current legal frameworks and recommending actionable steps for stakeholders. The document emphasises legal enforcement mechanisms to penalise FGM practitioners. It also calls for increasing community-based awareness programs to debunk myths surrounding FGM. Furthermore, it stresses the importance of expanding support systems for survivors, including psychological and medical care. The policy brief is published on NFM’s website and is available for download to all stakeholders, policymakers, and advocates.
NFM’s campaign against FGM reached diverse audiences, and significant strides were made in education, advocacy, and policy engagement. By leveraging digital platforms, stakeholder discussions, and policy recommendations, NFM contributed to the broader fight to protect young girls from this harmful practice, further bringing conversations to the forefront.
About Naija Feminists Media
Naija Feminists Media (NFM) is a pioneering Nigerian organisation dedicated to advancing women’s rights through media and grassroots activism. We work to reframe negative stereotypes about gender advocacy, combat gender-based disinformation, influence policies that support women and girls, expose perpetrators of male violence, amplify women’s voices and achievements, inspire career growth, and enhance women’s representation in the media, all to reshape the narrative around gender equality in Nigeria.
