Nigeria

This monograph describes Nigeria’s social structure, the basis and nature of Nigeria’s harmful traditional practices, and problems faced by women both in the context of female genital mutilation and patriarchy.

Health workers say an apparent rise in contraceptive use in Nigeria stems largely from a willingness by traditional and religious leaders in some regions to use their influence in promoting reproductive health. In the predominantly Muslim north, where contraceptive use has historically been far lower than the national average, the support of traditional leaders has helped change attitudes in communities where contraception was long regarded as taboo. Alhaji Sani Umar, district head of Gagi District, Sokoto State, in northwestern Nigeria, works with the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) to advocate reproductive health in his community. 

This article gives an explanation of the different varieties of FGM and puts it in historical context. It then goes into the various beliefs that underlie why this practice is carried out; all of whose foundations are patriarchal. The author explains how the practice of FGM can risk a woman health, and she then gives recommendations as to how to halt the practice.