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By Ladidi Al-Hassan
The Network of Reproductive Health Journalists of Nigeria (NRHJN) has called for urgent and proactive measures to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) across the country.
In a statement signed by the Ondo State Coordinator, Fatima Muraina, the network emphasised the need for stricter enforcement of laws, increased community involvement, and direct action against perpetrators of the harmful practice.
The statement highlighted the role of Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs), many of whom continue to engage in FGM due to financial incentives. It called for home visits and closer monitoring of their activities to curb the practice.
“How do parents get their daughters mutilated if not through professionals who perform the procedure? Female delivery methods should be scrutinised, and proper checks conducted before immunisation is administered,” the statement read.
It further noted that despite existing laws, FGM persists because parents continue to seek out practitioners willing to perform the procedure in secret.
The network urged healthcare professionals, both in the public and private sectors, to take a stand by ensuring that anyone involved in FGM is identified and prosecuted.
“The government should mandate investigations for every girl child brought for immunisation at all centres.
“If any mother or health worker is found complicit in FGM, they should be arrested and handed over to security operatives to face the full weight of the law,” the statement added.
The NRHJN also called for tougher penalties, including longer prison sentences and heavy fines, to deter offenders.
Beyond legal measures, the network stressed the importance of community engagement in eradicating FGM.
“It urged religious and traditional leaders to use their influence to educate people on the dangers of the practice and dispel harmful myths that sustain it.
Schools were also encouraged to integrate FGM awareness into their curriculum, ensuring young girls understand their rights and the serious health risks associated with the practice.
The statement further called on the media to step up advocacy efforts through investigative journalism, public enlightenment campaigns, and special reports exposing perpetrators.
Victims and their families were encouraged to speak up and seek justice, with assurances of legal support and rehabilitation services.
The NRHJN commended non-governmental and civil society organisations for their relentless efforts in fighting FGM.
“It urged them to collaborate more effectively to achieve the goal of zero tolerance for the practice.
“We should be tracking successes, including the number of offenders apprehended and sanctioned, to serve as a deterrent.
“Perpetrators must stop endangering the lives of our daughters,” the statement concluded.