…As UNFPA, Oyo Govt, CCPRH strengthen partnership to end the harmful practice
Frontida Zois Initiative (FZI) has recorded yet another milestone in its sustained campaign against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), following the remarkable success of its community-led intervention programme in Apatere Community, Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The initiative which was in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Oyo State Government, and the Centre for Comprehensive Promotion of Reproductive Health (CCPRH) was widely received at the occasion as a practical demonstration of what coordinated grassroots advocacy can achieve in the global effort to end FGM.
Over 500 people, youths, men, and women in Apatere Community, Lagelu Local Government area of Oyo State attended the FGM programme, applauding the agencies for the insightful campaign and advocacy on the abandonment of the female cutting.
Speaking at the programme held at the palace of Alapatere of Apetere community, which culminated in a symbolic public declaration to abandon FGM, the Chief Executive Officer, Frontida Zois Initiative, Mrs Petra Ogunfowokan described the FGM campaign as very crucial to end FGM in the Community.
She said the development is a powerful reminder that communities, when given the right information and support, are capable of leading their own change.
According to her, the exercise has not been without dialogue, robust communication, training of community volunteers, and education involving parents, traditional rulers religious leaders, women, and young people.
“Change is gradual, but we have seen how persistence, truth-based advocacy, and community engagement break long-standing harmful norms. Apatere has shown courage, and we are proud of their commitment to protect the girl child,” she said.
Mrs Ogunfowokan reaffirmed the commitment of FZI, UNFPA, Oyo State Government, and CCPRH to end FGM in Oyo State.
Representing CCPRH at the event, Yelotan Emmanuel highlighted that the Apatere milestone is not an isolated victory, but part of a broader strategic framework aimed at eliminating FGM across all communities in Oyo State.
He commended FZI for its consistency and impact-driven approach, stressing that UNFPA will continue to support local organizations championing the rights and well-being of women and girls.
“This success proves that when global institutions, government agencies, and local actors work hand-in-hand, the result is sustainable change.
The collaboration remains committed to supporting community interventions that advance gender equality and eliminate all forms of violence against women,” she said.
Speaking in the well-attended programme, the Alapatere of Apatere Community, Baale Sunday Alamu, Olufunmilayo 1 thanked the people for their cooperation and for honouring his invitation to attend the public declaration on FGM.
The Baale admonished the people especially, the women to immediately end FGM, noting that the danger inherent in the practice is uncalled for.
“I urge you all to cooperate with me on the issue of abandonment of FGM in this community, as we all declare that henceforth there will be no female genital mutilation practice among us.”
The Alapatere described the programme as a good one that has brought civilization to the people of the community, especially among the youths, adding that the development will correct the mistakes of the past on the issue.
He advised the people of Apatere to desist from the practice, warning that anyone caught in the act would be handed over to the government authority.
Speaking, South West FGM Gender Analyst- UNFPA, Madam Uzoma Ayodeji described the programme as a welcome development, adding that the attendance was very encouraging.
Madam Ayodeji thanked the Alapatere for his warm reception, and his willingness to end the FGM
“I am very happy because the Baale, the religious leaders, women leaders, and the youths all came out to witness the occasion and publicly declared the abandonment of female genital mutilation.
“The development showed a sign of commitment that they will be watching out for those who still want to practice the harmful practice.
“My advice is that everyone in this community should adhere to the awareness and sensitization to do away with FGM.”
Madam Ayodeji commended the high attendance and said a good surveillance team should be put in place to prevent, track, and report offenders to the appropriate authority
The programme attracted traditional leaders, women groups, youth representatives, health professionals, civil society advocates, and government officials—marking one of the most inclusive gatherings in the history of anti-FGM campaigns within the region.
