In a decisive move to end the harmful practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Ondo State, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has partnered with The Balm in Gilead Foundation for Sustainable Development (BIGIF), a women and youth-led non-governmental organization committed to advancing human rights and sustainable development.
During a courtesy visit to the NOA State Directorate in Akure, James Mr Adekunle, the Ondo State Director of NOA, welcomed the collaboration and commended BIGIF for its unwavering commitment to eradicating FGM.
He stressed the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in addressing deeply entrenched cultural practices that endanger the lives and dignity of women and girls.
“The NOA stands firmly behind initiatives that promote human rights and social justice.
“As the advocacy arm of the government, we are committed to amplifying causes that reflect our national values and foster societal development. FGM is a threat to those values, and we must work collectively to eliminate it,” Mr Adekunle said.
Mr Nelson Akerele, programme manager of BIGIF in Ondo State, described FGM as a grave violation of human rights and a public health concern with devastating physical and psychological consequences.
He revealed that the organization’s intervention will focus on four key local government areas of Ifedore, Idanre, Owo, and Akure South, with particular attention to the Ijoka community, where the practice remains prevalent.
“FGM is not only a harmful traditional practice; it is a life-threatening act that must be confronted through education, advocacy, and policy enforcement.
“Our partnership with NOA is a step forward in engaging communities, shifting narratives, and ensuring the protection of girls and women,” Akerele stated.
The visit also featured the exchange of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials designed to raise awareness and provide comprehensive information on the legal and policy frameworks outlawing FGM in Nigeria.
These materials will be deployed in grassroots campaigns to foster community dialogue and support behavioral change.
The collaboration between NOA and BIGIF is part of a broader strategy to drive transformative change by promoting sustainable development and a future free from violence and discrimination against women and girls.
Both organizations reiterated their commitment to working with traditional leaders, local authorities, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to amplify community-led efforts and ensure the total eradication of FGM in Ondo State.
FGM remains a deeply rooted cultural practice in some communities despite being criminalized under the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act.
Advocacy groups like BIGIF continue to push for education, enforcement, and grassroots engagement as the most effective tools for change.