As the world marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Adamawa State Chapter, has called for intensified efforts to eradicate the harmful practice.
In a statement signed by chairperson, Rose Anthony Elishama and secretary Gloria Abutu, the association described FGM as a serious human rights violation that continues to affect millions of girls and women.
Despite increasing awareness and legal frameworks, the practice persists in many communities under the guise of cultural tradition.
NAWOJ Adamawa emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach to achieve the total eradication of FGM and called for stronger law enforcement to ensure offenders are held accountable, community engagement and sensitization to challenge myths and cultural beliefs sustaining the practice, and increased media advocacy to educate the public on its dangers.
It also stressed the importance of providing medical, psychological, and legal support for survivors, while urging government agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, and the public to take urgent action to protect girls from FGM.
It highlighted the role of the media in amplifying the voices of survivors, exposing perpetrators, and advocating for policies that safeguard the rights of women and girls.
NAWOJ Adamawa reaffirmed its commitment to using journalism and advocacy to ensure a future where young girls are free from the threat of FGM.
