“Lagos Speaker Mojisola Meranda Calls for Collective Action to End Female Genital Mutilation”

Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, has called for a united effort to eradicate the harmful practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria.

In a statement on Thursday to mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, Meranda emphasized the urgent need for collective action to protect millions of girls and women who suffer from this violation of their fundamental human rights. FGM refers to any procedure that involves the partial or total removal of female external genitalia or any injury to female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is most often performed on girls between infancy and age 15.

“FGM violates basic human rights, including health, security, and dignity. It is a global issue that must be addressed immediately,” Meranda stated. She expressed solidarity with individuals and organizations around the world working to end this practice, which affects countless girls and women worldwide.

This year’s International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation carried the theme #StepUpThePace, which Meranda said should serve as a call to action for all sectors of society. “We must accelerate our efforts to end this barbaric practice once and for all. It is not just the responsibility of governments, but of everyone — legislators, healthcare workers, professionals, and all concerned individuals,” she said.

Meranda reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for policies that protect girls, raise awareness about the dangers of FGM, and ensure that potential victims are safeguarded. She emphasized that society must unite to secure a better future for young girls, preserving their health, dignity, and rights.

“Together, we can create a world free from the horrors of female genital mutilation. It is a cause that requires all hands on deck,” the Lagos Speaker concluded, urging every individual to take action in their respective capacities.