By Capital Watch Media
The First Lady of Osun State, Her Excellency, Chief Mrs Titilola Adeleke, has reaffirmed her commitment to eradicating female genital mutilation, FGM, in the state.
She joined nursing students of Osun State General Hospital, Asubiaro, alongside key stakeholders, to raise awareness about the harmful effects of the practice.
Speaking at the event, Adeleke described FGM as a dangerous cultural tradition that causes physical and psychological harm to women and girls.
“Female genital mutilation is a violation of human rights. It is our collective responsibility to put an end to this harmful practice,” she stated.
She highlighted the importance of legal frameworks, community-driven advocacy, and the involvement of traditional and religious leaders in eliminating FGM.
“We need to strengthen enforcement of existing laws and continue engaging our communities in meaningful discussions,” she added.
The Director of Gender at the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children, and Social Welfare, Lola Adewale, commended the First Lady for her active role in fighting FGM.
“Her Excellency has been instrumental in amplifying awareness and mobilising efforts to end this harmful practice,” she said.
Mrs Uzoma Ayodeji, an FGM analyst with the United Nations Population Fund, UNPF, also praised the First Lady’s advocacy.
“Through education and community engagement, we can change harmful norms and protect future generations of women,” she remarked.
Stakeholders at the event stressed the dangers of FGM, citing cases of complications during childbirth and increased maternal mortality.
“We have seen women suffer severe consequences due to this practice, and it must stop,” Mrs Adewale added.
A key moment at the event was the presentation of an award of excellence to the First Lady in recognition of her unwavering commitment to ending FGM.
She was lauded for her dedication to reshaping narratives and championing women’s rights.
Dignitaries in attendance included Mrs Fatima Idris, Programme Officer at AHI, N.D Badru Oladipupo, Provost of Osun State College of Nursing Science, and Adelowokan, Director of Nursing Services. Also present were Adejuwon Gbadegesin, State PRO of NANNM, and Fatima Obelawo.
The First Lady urged all stakeholders to sustain efforts in raising awareness and enforcing laws against FGM.
“We must not relent until this harmful practice is completely eradicated from our communities,” she said.
The event reinforced the ongoing campaign against FGM in Osun State, highlighting the need for continuous advocacy, legal action, and community engagement to ensure the protection of women and girls.
