The campaign against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) was further strengthened as the Victory Support Foundation, led by its Founder and CEO, Ambassador Olubunmi Olufunmilayo Lawal, organized a community dialogue in Oke Ooye, Ilesa East Local Government Area of Osun State. The program was sponsored by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) through Osun Action Health Incorporated.
The dialogue attracted a large turnout of community members who came together with eagerness to learn, share experiences, and explore better ways of protecting women and girls from the dangers of FGM.
The gathering brought together traditional leaders, women’s groups, youth representatives, health practitioners, teachers, and religious leaders. The interactive session gave participants an opportunity to express their opinions while also listening to expert guidance on the health, cultural, and religious implications of the practice.
A mother in attendance said:
“We grew up seeing this as normal, but today we have been enlightened. Now I understand that this practice can harm our daughters, and I am ready to make a change.”
One of the youths also added:
“The future belongs to us, and we want that future to be free from harmful practices. Our generation is ready to protect our sisters and daughters.”
Health experts from the Victory Support Foundation explained the severe risks of FGM, such as excessive bleeding, infections, childbirth complications, and emotional trauma. They emphasized that the practice has no health benefits and should be abandoned completely.
In her address, Ambassador Lawal urged the community to embrace positive traditions that safeguard the lives of girls:
“Our culture should not destroy; it should nurture. FGM is dangerous and unnecessary. Let us unite to protect our daughters and give them the freedom to grow into their full potential.”
Representatives of Osun Action Health Incorporated, speaking on behalf of UNFPA, commended the initiative and praised the people of Oke Ooye for their openness and participation.
As a gesture of goodwill, the Victory Support Foundation presented gifts to the traditional head of Oke Ooye, Chief Olayemi Adetunji, who expressed his commitment to the cause:
“We cannot continue to hold on to practices that put our children at risk. From this day, Oke Ooye stands with the campaign to protect the girl child.”
The foundation reaffirmed its resolve to extend its advocacy to more communities across Osun State, using dialogue, education, and media campaigns to eliminate FGM and defend the rights and dignity of women and girls.