Port Harcourt, July 10, 2025 – The Rivers State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has launched a three-day training program to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the state. Held at the Women Affairs Complex in Port Harcourt, the initiative trained 60 community-based facilitators, predominantly women, to educate communities about the dangers of FGM and advocate for its elimination.

Prof. Justina Jumbo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, described FGM as a grave violation of girls’ and women’s dignity, health, and future. She emphasized that Rivers State has enacted laws prohibiting harmful practices against females, with legal consequences for offenders. Prof. Jumbo reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting girls and eradicating FGM, expressing gratitude to Vice Admiral (RTD) Ibok-Ete Ekwe, the State Administrator, as well as UNICEF and UNFPA for their support. When asked about the program’s reach, she confirmed plans to extend the initiative to all Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state.

Mr. Anselm Audu, UNICEF Chief Field Officer in Port Harcourt, urged parents to refrain from subjecting their daughters to FGM and highlighted the critical role of community participation in ending the practice. Facilitators at the training stressed the importance of effective communication, empathy, and inclusive leadership to engage rural communities effectively. Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative and pledged to leverage domesticated laws to protect future generations from FGM.

The program is expected to amplify the state’s efforts to eliminate FGM, with trained facilitators equipped to educate others in their communities. Teaching aids will be provided to support ongoing retraining, ensuring the message reaches grassroots levels.

This initiative marks a significant step toward ending FGM in Rivers State, aligning with broader efforts to promote gender equality and protect women’s rights. The collaboration underscores the power of partnerships in addressing harmful cultural practices and fostering community-driven change.