NWANGELE UNITES TO END FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION (FGM)

-HOLDS ONE DAY LGA STAKEHOLDERS FORUM TO ACCELERATE THE ABANDONMENT OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION (FGM)

In a progressive move to combat the persistent practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the state which is spearheaded by the Wife of the Governor, Chief Barr. Chioma Uzodimma, brought together stakeholders from Nwangele Local Government Area (LGA) in Imo State. The 1-Day LGA Stakeholders Forum, held under the theme "Nwangele Unites to End Female Genital Mutilation," focused on raising awareness and fostering collaboration among community members to eradicate this harmful practice. The event showcased a united front against FGM, aiming to educate the public about its detrimental effects on women's health and well-being.

Prominent at the forum was Rev. Sis. Dr. Maria Joannes Uzoma, the Executive Secretary of the Imo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ISPHCDA). She delivered an enlightening presentation on the implications of FGM, clarifying the physical and psychological consequences it has on women and girls. Dr. Uzoma's insights underscored the critical need for community engagement and collective action against the barbaric traditions that perpetuate such abuses. Her contribution highlighted the importance of education and advocacy in shifting social norms that condone FGM.

As the Special Guest of Honour, Hon. Dr. Success Prosper-Ohayagba, the Commissioner for Health and Social Development, vehemently denounced the practice in the 21st century, stressing its harmful medical repercussions for the girl-child. He commended Nwangele stakeholders for their commitment to rejecting FGM and articulated the need for ongoing initiatives that protect the rights and health of women. Dr. Prosper-Ohayagba's passionate address not only condemned the practice but also encouraged the community to embrace progressive values that affirm the dignity of every girl and woman.

The chairperson of Nwagele Mrs Duru chinenye maryann Support the initiative,in her open address she highlighted the urgent need for the abandonment of female genital mutilation, her exhortations echoed the commitment to ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and emphasized the role of government in safeguarding women's rights. the Wife of the the executive chairman of nwangele lga, and the APC woman leader Mrs Ifeoma Osuagwu, both further reinforced this commitment, vowing to collaborate with stakeholders in the LGA to eliminate the practice from their communities.

Hon. Paul Chijioke Duru, the Executive Chairman of Nwangele LGA, who expressed gratitude to the stakeholders for their dedication to this vital cause. He characterized FGM as an inhumane and unfair treatment of women, calling for legislative measures to penalize those who engage in this practice. Hon. Duru's supportive remarks reinforced the sentiment that the fight against FGM is a shared responsibility, while he lauded the efforts of the Governor’s wife and the community's steadfast resolve to create a safe and equitable environment for all, particularly for the vulnerable girl-child. Together, the voices at the forum championed a hopeful vision for a future free from the shackles of harmful traditions.

Other stakeholders in attendance were the traditional rulers cut across the communities in Nwangele LGA. 

The Vice Chairman Hon. Ichie Daniel Nkpadobi and his lovely wife, The councilors and Hon. Ezeala Ferdinand Akano who happen to be the moderator.