NHRC Calls For Stronger Collaboration To End Female Genital Mutilation In Nigeria

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a strong call for greater collaboration to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria.

On February 6th, Executive Secretary Dr. Tony Ojukwu emphasised the critical role of citizens, healthcare workers, and other stakeholders in strengthening alliances to achieve the goal.

This year’s theme, “Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM,” emphasises the urgency of the situation.

Dr. Ojukwu emphasised the NHRC’s long-standing commitment to eliminating this “painful, unhealthy, harmful, and degrading practice.”

The Commission’s efforts include the 2017 publication of a training manual on human rights and FGM, which was created in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Civil Resource Development and Documentation Centre. T

This manual provides a framework for understanding FGM as a form of violence against women and girls, as well as guidance on how to report such violations.

Following the manual’s release, a joint NHRC/UNFPA/UNICEF program held training sessions in five states: Imo, Ebonyi, Osun, Oyo, and Ekiti.

The training drew a diverse range of participants, including government representatives, community-based organisations (CBOs), faith-based organisations (FBOs), media, security agents, traditional rulers, and civil society organisations.

Positive changes towards FGM elimination have been observed in these states, and the program is expected to expand to other affected areas based on resource availability.

To demonstrate its commitment, the NHRC established the Special Independent Investigation Panel on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in 2019, with funding from the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative.

This panel worked across Nigeria to address SGBV complaints and empower victims through skills training and business support.

Dr. Ojukwu ended his message with a powerful call to action. He urged Nigerians to report all cases of FGM and other human rights violations to the NHRC through its toll-free number, 6472.

The Commission pledged to take appropriate action in accordance with national, regional, and international laws to protect victims’ rights.

The NHRC’s ongoing efforts and renewed call for collaboration reflect a stronger commitment to ending FGM in Nigeria.