Enugu Youths Take a Stand Against Female Genital Mutilation(FGM)
Enugu Youths Take a Stand Against Female Genital Mutilation More than 600 female students gathered at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu State, on Thursday, 6th February, to take a stand against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The awareness campaign, organised by the First Lady of Enugu State in collaboration with the Custos Care Foundation, was part of activities marking the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM. With the theme “Step Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM,” the event provided an interactive platform for young women to learn about the dangers of FGM, share their perspectives, and commit to raising awareness within their communities. Opening the discussion, Comr. Egodi Igwe, Managing Director of Custos Care Foundation, led an interactive session where students voiced their thoughts on FGM. Many expressed strong opposition to the practice and pledged to become advocates against gender-based violence. IMT’s Deputy Rector, Dr Ejim Emeka Patrick, commended the initiative, assuring that the institution would continue to amplify the message against FGM and empower students to be change agents. Dr Uzoamaka Uzoechina, Technical Adviser on Gender Matters, highlighted the various interventions championed by the First Lady’s office and Custos Care Foundation in tackling FGM. She emphasised the need for continuous advocacy, policy enforcement, and community engagement to protect women and girls. A key moment of the event was a lecture by Dr Nevo Calistus Obiora, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital. He provided a detailed analysis of FGM, explaining its different forms, the severe health risks, and the psychological trauma it causes. His presentation reinforced the urgent need for education and policy-driven solutions to eliminate the practice. The students actively engaged in discussions, asking thought-provoking questions and sharing their insights. Their enthusiasm and willingness to drive change demonstrated the impact of awareness and education in the fight against FGM. Addressing the students, the First Lady of Enugu State, represented by the wife of the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Mrs Chinyere Ugwu, stressed the collective responsibility of society in protecting young girls from harmful practices. She encouraged the students to take ownership of the campaign and become ambassadors for change. The event concluded with a strong call to action, as stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening advocacy, building alliances, and supporting policies aimed at eliminating FGM. The First Lady’s office and Custos Care Foundation pledged continued efforts to protect the rights and dignity of women and girls, ensuring that no child in Enugu State suffers from this harmful practice. Facebook Instagram FOLLOW OUR SOCIALS
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