Senator Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, commemorates the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), joining the global community in condemning this harmful practice. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognize the importance of ending FGM, with a specific target to eliminate it by 2030.
In a statement, Senator Banigo, who also serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, expressed deep concern over the devastating effects of FGM on women and girls. She described the practice as a gross violation of human rights that causes severe physical and emotional trauma while perpetuating gender inequality.
A Harvard-trained Public Health Physician, Dr. Banigo has witnessed firsthand the horrific consequences of FGM on the health and well-being of women and girls. She emphasized that it is unacceptable for this practice to persist in any society.
As a former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, she has worked extensively with communities, traditional leaders, and healthcare providers to address public health challenges, including FGM. Through these engagements, she has observed the impact of sustained efforts and collective action in reducing the prevalence of FGM and fostering positive change.
One of her key initiatives, “Protect the Girl Child,” was established to defend the rights of young girls and eradicate all forms of violence both physical and sexual against women and girls. In collaboration with Doctors Without Borders, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), and other non-governmental organizations, this initiative provides rehabilitation, counseling, and necessary interventions for survivors of FGM.
This year’s theme, “Step Up the Pace,” underscores the urgent need for collective action to end FGM. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, Senator Banigo continues to advocate for stronger laws, policies, and programs that protect the rights and well-being of women and girls.
Representing the Rivers West Senatorial District, she remains committed to using her office to amplify the voices of her constituents, many of whom are disproportionately affected by FGM.
In her closing remarks, Senator Banigo stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in raising awareness, educating communities, and supporting efforts to eliminate FGM in Nigeria. She reaffirmed her belief that empowering women and girls is fundamental to breaking the cycle of FGM and ensuring a future where they can thrive free from violence, discrimination, and inequality.
