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UNICEF, BIGIF PARTNER ONDO TO END FGM
…Commends Governor Aiyedatiwa administration over efficient healthcare, socio-economic welfare and protection of Girls and women from harmful practices
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in partnership with a leading non-governmental organization – Balm in Gilead Foundation for Sustainable Development (BIGIF), has joined forces with the Ondo State Government to intensify efforts towards eradication of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the state.
This collaborative initiative is part of a broader commitment to safeguard the health, rights, and dignity of girls and women in Nigeria.
The joint effort brings together government agencies, civil society actors, traditional and religious leaders, women groups, men champions and youth group particularly adolescent girls build their agency, challenge harmful traditional practices and accelerate sustainable progress towards the abandonment of FGM.
Mr Denis Onoise, Child Protection Specialist at the UNICEF Lagos Field Office in his remark during the advocacy visit to the Ondo State Ministry of Women Affairs, appreciates the state government for its commitment to welfare of children and women in particular.
The UNICEF representative emphasized the importance of collective action in combating FGM.
“Ending FGM requires more than just laws—it demands community dialogue, empowerment, and sustained advocacy. We are here to support Ondo State in strengthening community-based mechanisms and empowering girls with the knowledge and confidence to say no to FGM,” he said.
Dr. Oluwatumininu Adedeji, the Executive Director of Balm in Gilead Foundation for Sustainable Development (BIGIF) said the intervention is a renewed effort to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and safeguard the rights and well-being of girls and women in the state.
She said the partnership seeks to build on existing progress through sustained public engagement, policy advocacy, and inclusive programming that leaves no one behind and do no harms.Dr. Oluwatumininu highlighted the central role of community mobilization and education.
She emphasised that the project will facilitate multi-stakeholder partnership which underscores a shared commitment to promoting the health, dignity, and human rights of every girl and woman in Ondo State.
The Special Adviser to the Ondo State Governor on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye welcomed the UNICEF and BIGIF team lauding the choice of Ondo state for such intervention which according to her is consistent with Governor Aiyedatiwa’s seven pillars of administration, “OUR EASE”.
She said the state focuses on Efficient Healthcare and Socioeconomic welfare and would continue to mobilise support toward the achievement of this and other agenda.She further commended UNICEF and its partners for their unwavering support in protecting girls from harmful practices. “FGM is not only a grave violation of the rights of girls and women but also a threat to their health, wellbeing, and future.
“Ondo State is determined to end this harmful practice and we are proud to work with partners who share this commitment”.
“I want to assure you that our ministry is open to partnering with stakeholders toward the achievement of the development goals of Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa administration”.
The Special Adviser who described the ministry of women affairs as a bridge to the vulnerable population also told the team that the ministry is committed to the success of the project while promising to work collaboratively with BIGIF and other stakeholders.
The team called on all stakeholders, government institutions, civil society, media, and community members to join hands in this crucial fight to ensure that every girl in Ondo State grows up free from violence, empowered to thrive, and able to realize her full potential.
Also in attendance were the management team of the ministry including the Ag. Permanent Secretary , Mrs. Olukemi Odusola, Director Child(Mefun Tudor) , Director Women Affairs (Mrs Oladiran), Director Finance (Ronke Filani), Director Social Welfare (Mr Oyegunwa) and other members of the UNICEF team.
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