Health experts and lawmakers hail Oyo State for turning the tide on female genital mutilation, but warn: the final push to zero must not slow down.
Oyo State is getting major praise for slashing its FGM prevalence from 65% to 18%, a dramatic drop experts say proves that strong political will and community action can deliver real change.
Speaking at a media briefing in Ibadan to mark the 2026 International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, Prof. Oladosu Ojengbede of UCH credited the progress to sustained advocacy, legislation, survivor leadership, community engagement and the UNFPA–UNICEF Joint Programme. Nigeria’s national FGM rate, he noted, has also declined to 14%.
“Oyo has shown leadership,” Ojengbede said, urging the state to protect the gains and accelerate efforts toward zero FGM, warning that progress could stall without continued investment and commitment.
Backing the fight legally, Attorney-General Abiodun Aikomo said Oyo’s VAPP Law criminalises FGM, with offenders facing up to four years in prison or a ₦500,000 fine, while lawmakers stressed the need for sustained funding and policy continuity. Health officials also called for stronger involvement of traditional and religious leaders, saying the battle must be fought on all fronts.
Bottom line: Oyo is leading—but the finish line is still ahead.
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