Ending Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria: Practical Solutions

What is Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)?

The World Health Organization defines FGM as the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is also known as Female Circumcision.

FGM ranges from the least harmful techniques, such as cutting off the external genitalia, to the most harmful ones, like totally sealing off the vaginal opening.

It is generally divided into Type 1- Type 4 groups. Instruments of circumcision include razor blades, broken bottles, knives,e.t.c

Are there any Health Benefits to Survivors?

No. The reverse is the case. FGM interferes with the natural processes of girls and women's bodies by removing healthy, normal female genital tissue. 

Immediate complications of FGM can include:

• severe pain

• excessive bleeding

• genital tissue swelling

• infections

• injury to surrounding genital tissue

• shock

• death.

Long-term complications can include:

• Urinary issues, including difficulty urinating and Urinary Tract Infections;

• Menstrual problems like painful periods and irregular menstruation; 

• Vaginal problems like abnormal discharge and itching;

• Sexual problems like pain during sex and decreased satisfaction;

• Complications during childbirth like obstructed labor, excessive bleeding, stillbirths and newborn deaths;

• Psychological problems; such as depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

So Why is FGM Practiced?

According to the United Nations Population Fund, there are generally five (5) reasons FGM is practiced.

1. Psychosocial reasons: In many societies, FGM is seen as an important part of a girl's upbringing. Also as a means of preparing her for adulthood and marriage.

For the sake of maintaining her virginity before marriage and faithfulness to her spouse, her sexuality is restrained.

2. Sociocultural reasons: As a cultural practice for generations, communities naturally continue the act. For some parents, they circumcise their daughters because they want to be accepted by the community.

Sometimes myths about female genitalia encourage the practice. e.g. FGM will enhance fertility and increase male pleasure.

3. Hygiene reasons: Female genitalia are removed in some tribes because they are thought to be filthy and unattractive. So, it is done to increase hygiene and look.

4. Religious reasons: Although no religious texts support this barbaric behaviour, some people think it has a theological basis. However, religious authorities have different opinions on FGM, and some of them have called for its end.

5. Socio-economic factors: In some societies, FGM is required for marriage. In such situations where women depend on men for economic survival, they are left with no choice.

It may also serve as a significant source of income for the practitioners. Hence, they would promote its continuation.

FGM in Nigeria: Should we be bothered?

Yes. FGM is destroying the lives of Nigerian women and girls. UNICEF states that there are almost twenty million survivors, the third highest number of FGM cases worldwide.

Despite the efforts of organizations like UNICEF and UNFPA, FGM remains a deeply rooted cultural practice in many communities. According to NDHS 2018 data, the nationwide prevalence of FGM among girls ages 0 to 14 increased from 17% in 2013 to over 19% in 2018.

The South East (35%) and South West (30%) have the greatest rates of FGM, whereas the North East (6%) has the lowest.

There are five Nigerian states where it is highly prevalent: Imo, Ekiti, Ebonyi, Oyo and Osun.

How Can We End FGM in Nigeria?

The elimination of FGM requires the joint efforts of numerous stakeholders. The Nigerian government can adopt the strategy of the World Health Assembly. It called for concerted efforts in the health, education, finance, justice and women's affairs sectors across all countries.

With a unified purpose, I believe that they can implement the following practical solutions to combat FGM:

• Enforce Laws: Nigeria enacted the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act in 2015. Section 6 of the Act provides a set of punishments for FGM. It is time to prosecute offenders of the law to serve as a deterrent to others. In addition, law enforcement authorities should be sensitized and given the necessary training to respond to cases of FGM.

• Awareness Campaigns: Initiate awareness programs targeting communities where FGM is common. These campaigns should focus on disproving myths surrounding FGM. Highlighting its harmful physical and psychological effects on women and girls. While emphasizing the importance of girls' rights and bodily autonomy.

• Community Engagement: Promote dialogue among community leaders such as elders, women leaders and religious figures to end FGM. Encouraging open conversations about the damaging effects of FGM may result in community-led efforts to change cultural beliefs that support the practice. This will have a longer-lasting impact.

• Access to healthcare and alternative rituals: We must ensure that women and girls who have undergone FGM have access to quality healthcare services, including counseling and medical assistance. Also, we could introduce and promote alternate ceremonies that mark the entrance into womanhood without exposing girls to FGM.

• Engaging men and boys: Men and boys should not be left out during educational programs. By promoting gender equality and challenging harmful gender stereotypes, they can become advocates for ending FGM within their communities.

• International cooperation: Encourage joint international efforts between other governments, Nonprofit organizations, and activists. To share best practices, coordinate efforts, and advocate for the eradication of FGM on a global scale. This also includes supporting local organizations working directly with affected communities.

• Data collection and research: Improve data collection on FGM prevalence, the root causes, and effective interventions. This can help inform evidence-based policies, interventions, and monitoring mechanisms. Hence, ensuring that resources are targeted and strategies are refined based on accurate information.

• Socioeconomic development: Address the underlying socioeconomic factors that contribute to the persistence of FGM. Such as poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality. By addressing the direct causes, such as investing in girls' education, increased economic opportunities, and gender empowerment, the government can create conditions where FGM is reduced.

Finally, It is important to recognize that ending FGM requires long-term commitment and respect for local traditions. While simultaneously protecting the rights and well-being of girls and women.