Protecting the Girl Child, Empowering Women: Abia First Lady’s Campaign Against FGM Gains Momentum
Ebere Uzoukwa, Ph.D
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful and unnecessary practice that has been perpetuated for far too long, with devastating consequences for girls and women worldwide. The World Health Organization defines FGM as all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, which can lead to physical and emotional trauma, infertility, and even death. In Abia State, Nigeria, the First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, has taken a bold step in the fight against FGM and violence against women.
Mrs. Otti has collaborated with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Abia State Orientation Agency (ABSOA), and other stakeholders to raise awareness about the issue and support efforts to prevent it. Her commitment to protecting the girl child and empowering women is evident in her tireless efforts to educate communities about the dangers of FGM. She has worked closely with community leaders, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to change the cultural and social norms that perpetuate FGM. Through her advocacy, Mrs. Otti has helped create a platform for survivors of FGM to share their stories and raise awareness about the issue.
On February 6, 2025, during the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, held at Mgboko, the Obingwa council headquarters, Mrs. Otti emphasized the need to eradicate FGM and ensure that every girl and woman can live a life free from violence and discrimination. Represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Maureen Ijeoma Aghukwa, the wife of the Governor acknowledged the leadership and commitment of Governor Alex Chioma Otti in ending FGM in Abia State. She stressed the importance of education, awareness-raising, and community engagement in preventing FGM.
Mrs. Otti also emphasized the critical role men and boys play in preventing FGM and encouraged them to speak out against it. She noted that FGM is not just a women’s issue, but a human rights issue that intersects with poverty, education, and healthcare. She emphasized that addressing the root causes of FGM, including poverty, lack of education, and cultural norms that perpetuate inequality, is crucial in preventing the practice.
Mrs. Otti’s speech was a call to action, urging everyone to work together to create a world where every girl and woman can live a life free from violence and discrimination. She expressed her commitment to supporting survivors of FGM and working to create a society that is supportive and inclusive of all girls and women. The First Lady’s efforts have gained momentum, and her campaign against FGM and violence against women is truly making a difference in the lives of girls and women in Abia State.
The Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, has demonstrated its commitment to ending FGM. The government has implemented policies and programs aimed at preventing FGM and supporting survivors. The First Lady’s efforts have complemented these initiatives, and together, they are making a significant impact in the fight against FGM.
As we recommit ourselves to the goal of ending FGM, let us work together to create a world where every girl and woman can live a life free from violence and discrimination. We must continue to educate ourselves and others about the issue, raise awareness about the risks and consequences of FGM, and support organizations and initiatives working to prevent FGM. We must also engage with communities and work with them to develop solutions tailored to their specific needs and contexts. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for all. The fight against FGM is a collective responsibility, and we must all play our part in ending this harmful practice. With the leadership and commitment of the Abia State Government and the First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, we are one step closer to achieving a world where every girl and woman can live a life free from violence and discrimination.
Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is SSA to the Governor of Abia State on Public Affairs.