NGO Sensitizes Children To Dangers Of FGM, Child Marriage In Osun

A non-governmental organization, Value Female Network (VFN) and Osun State Ministry of Women, Children & Social Affairs, has sensitized children in Osun state to the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Child Marriage.

The sensitization came at a concert at the Freedom Park, Osogbo, in commemoration of International Day of the African Child.

Addressing the children, the UNICEF FGM Consultant for Southwest Nigeria, Mrs Aderonke Olutayo, said children should recognize both practices as harmful to their well-being.

Olutayo explained that Female Genital Mutilation, Child Marriage and Child Trafficking, among other evils were violation of Children’s rights and must be reported to the police, traditional rulers or religious leaders in communities.

She outlined the dangers associated with Female Genital Mutilation and child marriage, advising children and adults to speak out against them.

Olutayo said, UNICEF intended to celebrate children in the state in a relaxed atmosphere while also letting them know about harmful traditional practices and how to protect themselves from such acts.

Also speaking, the FGM Coordinator in Osun State Ministry of Health, Mrs Toyin Adelowokan, advised parents to give their children sex education.

The Executive Director of VFN, Dr Costly Aderibigbe, urged participants to be advocates against harmful practices, especially Female Genital Mutilation which is prevalent in the state, adding that they should not allow anyone trample on their rights.

Aderibigbe said, the five million people would form a group of ambassadors against FGM, who would in turn make a pledge and commit to ending FGM in Nigeria.

Celebrity comedian, Woli Agba joined the Movement of Five Million People and was decorated before the children and adults present at the event.