At the Sam Mbakwe Hall of Rockview Hotel, Owerri, on February 6, 2025, we gathered with a common goal; to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a destructive practice that has harmed countless daughters, sisters, and mothers.

In marking the 2025 International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, we were joined by my husband, H.E. Dist. Sen. (Dr.) Hope Uzodimma, CON, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, National Chairman of APC, H.E. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR, National Women Leader, Dr. Mary Idele Idele Alile, members of the APC National Working Committee, members of the Imo State expanded Exco, and advocates alike, including Traditional rulers, women leaders, and young girls, among other dignitaries. Also in attendance were Ibrahim Sesay, Chief Child Protection, UNICEF, and Dr. Yakubu Aliyu, Programme Specialist Reproductive Health, UNFPA. Together, we marked this significant day in Imo State, using the occasion as a clarion call to examine our beliefs and reimagine a future where every girl's body is respected.

FGM is not a cultural tradition to be preserved; it is a violation of fundamental human rights. We must understand that culture is dynamic and should evolve to protect, not harm, our children. The time has come to challenge these deeply rooted misconceptions and safeguard our girls' fundamental rights.

The roadmap towards achieving Zero Tolerance for FGM was also unveiled, as we recognize that every girl we protect, every harmful practice we change, and every mind we open is a victory; not just for us, not just for Imo State, but for humanity.

I sincerely appreciate UNICEF Nigeria, UNFPA Nigeria, Movement for Good to End FGM, and other partners for their support in our efforts to eliminate FGM in Imo State. #EndFGM #NoToFGM #ZeroToleranceDay #SteppingUpThePace

#chiomauzodimma

H.E. Chief Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma
First Lady, Imo State and Founder, GoodHope Flourish Foundation
and Secretary of Renewed Hope Initiative.