Wife Of Lagos Gov, Bolanle Ambode Campaigns Against Female Genital Mutilation

The wife of the Lagos State governor, Bolanle Ambode has called for the continuous campaign against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) until it is completely eradicated by 2030.

The first lady described FGM as an act of extreme discrimination against women and girls while lamenting the slow pace of the awareness in the country.

To mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Ambode said FGM is an ancient practice which is culturally embedded, however, expressed optimism that the awareness would not be an effort in futility.

She said, “The pace of penetration of awareness seems slow because the practice is an ancient one, deeply rooted in our various cultures but that does not make our efforts fruitless. Though progress may be slow, we are going somewhere as rural women, mothers and young girls, are becoming aware of the severe health implications of the barbaric practice.

“A few years ago, many women, even some educated ones, saw it as a normal and socially acceptable practice but the story is fast changing, as awareness is getting mileage and rural women are now campaigning against it.

Ambode therefore, urged governments to enact law to combat FGM, just like some other anti-female practices.