DANGER OF FGM ON AFRICAN WOMEN

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OlaOluwa Akinremi- MCArb,LLM ,BL,LLB
OlaOluwa Akinremi- MCArb,LLM ,BL,LLB
LLM-WVU USA,Lawyer/ Int’l Arbitrator/Law Lecturer/Family Mediator/US Certified Human Rights & Immigration Consultant/Licensed Financial Strategist/Legal Innovation & Tech.Exp./P.Speaker/Life Coach/Music Minister/Author/

DANGER OF FGM ON AFRICAN WOMEN
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a deeply rooted practice in Nigeria, affecting millions of women and girls across the country. Here’s an overview of FGM in Nigeria:
Approximately 19.9 million women and girls have undergone FGM in Nigeria.
The national prevalence of FGM among women aged 15-49 is around 20%, with some states recording rates as high as 61.7% (Imo State) and 76.3% (Osun State).


The practice is more common in the South Eastern and South Western regions, with prevalence rates of 35% and 30%, respectively.
Types of FGM:
-Clitoridectomy (removal of the clitoris)

  1. *Treatment of complications.
  2. *Surgical interventions.
  3. Psychological Support 4.Counseling.
  4. *Trauma-informed care.
    Community-Based Initiatives
  5. Awareness-raising:
  6. Support groups: Creating support groups for survivors to share their experiences and support one another.
    Policy and Advocacy
  7. Law enforcement: Strengthening laws and policies to prevent FGM and protect survivors.
  8. Advocacy: Promoting awareness and action among policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to address FGM..
    Effective FGM management requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving healthcare providers, social workers, community leaders, and policymakers working together to support survivors and prevent further cases.
    PUBLIC SPEAKING- A TOOL OF LIFE
    https://lnkd.in/exJEyeqN
  • Excision (removal of the clitoris and labia minora)
  • Infibulation (narrowing of the vaginal opening)
  • Other forms of FGM, including pricking, piercing, and scraping
    Reasons for FGM:
    -Cultural and traditional practices
  • Preservation of virginity and prevention of premarital sex
  • Ensuring marriageability and family honor
  • Misconceptions about female sexuality and hygiene
    Consequences:
    -Physical complications, such as infections, infertility, and maternal death
  • Emotional and psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem
  • Human rights violations, including the right to health, security, and physical integrity
    Efforts to Eradicate FGM:
    -The Nigerian government banned FGM in 2015 through the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP).
  • Organizations like UNICEF, UNFPA, and local NGOs are working to raise awareness, provide education, and support communities in abandoning the practice.
  • Community-led initiatives and advocacy efforts are underway to promote behavioral change and protect girls at risk of FGM.
    Links to my several advocacy initiatives and awareness with Child Protection Network , Kosofe LGA, Lagos State in the past years.
    https://lnkd.in/e378hZAc
    https://lnkd.in/eumHGpjy
    https://lnkd.in/eeWcgccZ
    https://lnkd.in/ejpMGpan
    FGM management involves a comprehensive approach to address the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of survivors. Key aspects include:
    Medical Management