Despite Legal Prohibition And Dangers, Cultural Pressures Drive Continuation Of Female Genital Mutilation In Nigeria

As of early 2026, Nigeria stands as a crucial centre in the worldwide campaign to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), with close to 20 million women and girls believed to be affected by the ramifications of this practice. Although legal structures and advocacy initiatives have been put in place, this procedure still represents a serious health threat to countless individuals, with troubling patterns surfacing concerning its medicalisation.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) encompasses all procedures that involve either the partial or complete removal of the female external genitalia, or the infliction of injury to the female genital organs, for reasons that are not medically justified. This practice is predominantly performed on young females; even older ages are not exempted.

The highest rates of prevalence can be found in the South-South region, particularly in Delta State, especially in Agbor, as well as in the Southwest regions of Ekiti, Oyo, Ondo and Osun states. There exists a stark contrast between different states, with a rate of 62% in Delta state, while some northern states report figures below 1%.

Although there are legal prohibitions, cultural expectations and misconceptions continue to uphold the practice, with traditional excisers still operating in several areas.

This practice is acknowledged as a long-standing and entrenched issue that frequently goes unreported, largely due to the “moral numbing” effect created by cultural traditions.

In the year 2026, a significant number of girls in Nigeria are still vulnerable to the possibility of undergoing FGM, which contributes substantially to an estimated 4.5 million females t risk worldwide this year.