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Summary
A walk in Abuja on February 6, 2025, in recognition of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, raised awareness and called for stronger legislative actions to end FGM in Nigeria. Key organisations, including the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and PPFN, gathered to support the cause. The event culminated in the submission of demands to the National Assembly, signalling continued efforts in the fight against FGM.
In observance of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) that was held on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, a powerful walk took place in Abuja, mobilising efforts to end the harmful practice in Nigeria. The event, led by UNICEF, UNFPA, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum, and supported by the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN), Intersex, Society of Women, and other key organisations, gathered hundreds of individuals committed to bringing an end to FGM.
The event commenced with an opening speech from Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Honourable Minister for Women Affairs, who reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to eliminating FGM.
“FGM must end in Nigeria,” she stated, emphasising the government’s dedication to eradicating the practice. Following her remarks, representatives from the partnering organisations delivered speeches underscoring the urgent need for change and policy reform to protect women and girls.
The walk officially began after a brief ceremony and was led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs. Participants marched from the ministry to the National Assembly, where they submitted a set of five-point demands for Zero Tolerance for FGM. In a hopeful sign of progress, five members of the House of Representatives received the petition, reaffirming that legislative action towards an FGM-free Nigeria was already underway.
In a conversation with Naija Feminists Media (NFM), Rebecca Akpabio Uwana, the Communication and Marketing Officer for the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN), expressed her optimism about the walk’s impact.
“A very successful walk! FGM must cease to exist in Nigeria. Together, we will create change and protect the rights of women and girls,” she said. “By raising awareness, educating communities, and advocating for stronger policies, we can end Female Genital Mutilation for good. Every voice matters in this fight—let’s stand together for a future free from harm.”
PPFN, a key supporter of the event, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting survivors and promoting education in the battle against FGM. The organisation continues to work towards a Nigeria where FGM is relegated to history, not reality.
The walk marked a significant moment in the ongoing fight for women’s rights in Nigeria. It highlighted the continued collective efforts of the government, activists, and organisations to ensure a future where women and girls are free from harm.
