Makinde's wife condemns FGM, seeks total eradication before 2030
Wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, has condemned the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), describing it as inhumane, hazardous, and a violation of the rights and dignity
Wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, has condemned the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), describing it as inhumane, hazardous, and a violation of the rights and dignity of the girl-child.
She made the remarks in Ibadan during the 2026 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.
The governor’s wife was represented at the event by the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Ajibike Lawal.
Addressing participants, she said the global observance offers an opportunity to confront harmful traditional practices that continue to affect women and girls.
“Female genital mutilation, commonly known as FGM, is a harmful practice that exposes the girl-child to severe physical and psychological consequences. It violates human dignity and denies girls their right to bodily integrity and freedom,” she said.
She rejected cultural and traditional justifications for the practice, stressing that no belief system should legitimise harm against a child.
Mrs Makinde noted that stigma, misinformation and entrenched social norms have sustained the practice over the years. However, she commended stakeholders in Oyo State for progress recorded through sustained advocacy, community engagement and enforcement measures.
She cautioned that the campaign against FGM requires sustained effort, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to prosecute offenders and intensify grassroots sensitisation in pursuit of total eradication before 2030.
“I want to call on community leaders, traditional rulers, and law enforcement agencies to continue educating society and encourage people to speak up against this harmful practice.
“Every girl deserves to grow up whole and healthy. Our daughters are not objects to be harmed, but treasures to be protected."
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Earlier in her opening remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun, described the theme of the event “Towards 2030: No End to FGM Without Sustained Commitment and Investment” as a call for urgent and coordinated action.
“This theme is not just a slogan; it is a call to action. Ending FGM requires enduring resolve, strategic investment, and collective accountability,” she said, noting that the practice causes severe health and psychological consequences despite having no medical benefit.
Dr. Tunde Oyewole Aremu of the Ministry of Health presented medical data on the implications of FGM, warning that the practice remains a major public health concern.
Also speaking on the legal dimension, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Olubunmi Aare, outlined sanctions awaiting perpetrators, stressing the government’s resolve to enforce existing laws.
Chief Abobade Muftau, representing the Circumcisers Association, acknowledged the ongoing engagement between government and traditional practitioners.
The event brought together government officials, civil society organisations, development partners, traditional and religious leaders, and community advocates in renewed commitment to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation in Oyo State before 2030.