Oyo trains health workers to fight female genital mutilation
Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund, has organised a training to empower health workers in the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The event brought together medical professionals from all 33 local government areas to strengthen advocacy and intervention efforts. Dr. Muideen Olatunji and Mrs. Bilikis Olawoyin highlighted the dangers of FGM and stressed the importance of community engagement. The training also provided participants with resources to support survivors and promote behavioural change.
Highlights
- The training aimed to equip health workers with skills to identify, prevent, and respond to FGM and other forms of Gender-Based Violence.
- Dr. Muideen Olatunji emphasised the need for sustained advocacy, community engagement, and robust healthcare systems to eradicate FGM.
- Mrs. Bilikis Olawoyin explained the health risks and socio-cultural factors sustaining FGM, urging collective action to end the practice.
- Participants received materials and guidance on referral pathways to ensure survivors get medical, psychosocial, and legal support.
- The initiative reinforced FGM as a preventable public health issue and a violation of human rights, calling for intensified awareness campaigns at the community level.
