As part of it’s deliberate efforts towards combating Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and other forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the Oyo State Government on Wednesday inaugurated a 20-member Steering Committee and a 55-member Technical Working Group.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that the initiative is targeted at effective and sustainable management of gender-related issues in the state.
The inauguration of the committee and technical working group held on Wednesday, February 12 at the Local Government Staff Training Center, Secretariat, Ibadan.
The inauguration, spearheaded by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, held as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
The committees have been given three months to develop the Oyo State Action Plan, which will outline strategies to curb these harmful practices.
The Steering Committee comprises top government officials, including the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Barrister Abiodun Aikomo; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetumobi; Commissioner for Trade, Hon. Adebisi Adeniyi; and Commissioner for Education, Professor Soliu Adelabu.
Meanwhile, the Technical Working Group includes representatives from civil society organizations, development partners, as well as other key stakeholders.
Westernmirror.com.ng gathered that Nigeria currently ranks third in the world for FGM prevalence, with Oyo State holding the fifth-highest record among states in Nigeria.
During the inauguration, Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni Mni, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting a society where gender-related issues are effectively addressed through a collaborative, multi-sectoral approach.
The Convener, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Toyin Balogun, who also chairs the Steering Committee, emphasized that the initiative goes beyond tackling FGM.
She described it as a comprehensive gender-responsive governance strategy designed to create an inclusive, just, and equitable society.
“Ending FGM and addressing gender-based violence require full commitment from government agencies, civil society, development partners, community leaders, and the media,” Balogun stated.
She urged committee members to approach their task with urgency, dedication, and innovation, noting that the three-month deadline provides an opportunity to lay a strong foundation for long-term progress.
Representatives from partnering organizations, including UNICEF, expressed confidence that this strategic effort would significantly reduce FGM and GBV in Oyo State.