The Nigerian government is making significant strides in female genital mutilation reduction through legislative frameworks like the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act. Enacted in 2015, this law criminalizes the practice of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) across the nation. However, its effectiveness in curbing this deep-rooted cultural practice remained largely unexamined until recently. Researchers have now conducted a multi-year policy impact analysis using data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) between 2007 and 2021.

The analysis reveals a positive shift in public health trends. Awareness regarding the dangers of FGM/C remains high across all survey rounds. More importantly, the prevalence of mothers and daughters undergoing the procedure has steadily declined. Notably, the northeastern region currently reports the lowest prevalence rates. In contrast, the southwestern region has shown a consistent and steady downward trend over the study period. Despite these gains, prevalence remains relatively high in the southeast and northwest regions, suggesting that legislative success is not uniform.

Challenges in Female Genital Mutilation Reduction

Statistically significant differences in FGM/C awareness and prevalence exist between the pre-enactment and post-enactment periods of the VAPP Act. Nevertheless, experts advise caution when interpreting these results. The study identifies an associative relationship rather than a direct causal link. Several factors, including urbanization and education, might also contribute to the declining trends. Furthermore, regional heterogeneity highlights that law alone cannot eliminate the practice without localized community engagement. Healthcare providers must remain vigilant, as FGM/C continues to pose severe risks, including obstetric complications and psychological trauma.

Clinicians play a vital role in this transition by providing compassionate care and education. Understanding the regional shifts in FGM/C prevalence allows for better-targeted interventions. Consequently, the medical community must continue to support legal efforts with robust clinical advocacy. The journey toward total eradication requires a multi-pronged approach involving law, education, and healthcare excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the VAPP Act impact healthcare providers?

The VAPP Act provides a legal mandate for healthcare providers to report and discourage FGM/C. It empowers clinicians to educate patients about the physical and legal consequences of the practice.

Which regions in Nigeria still show high FGM/C prevalence?

While overall trends are declining, FGM/C prevalence remains relatively high in the southeast, southwest, north-central, and northwest regions of Nigeria.

Is the decline in FGM/C directly caused by the 2015 law?

The study found a significant association between the law's enactment and declining prevalence. However, it notes that other socioeconomic factors also play a role, making the link associative rather than strictly causal.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare consultation. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

Nzeribe EC et al. Evaluating the effectiveness of the violence against persons prohibition act in reducing female genital mutilation/cutting in Nigeria: a multi-year policy impact analysis. BMC Res Notes. 2026 Feb 08. doi: 10.1186/s13104-026-07700-1. PMID: 41654954.

World Health Organization. Female genital mutilation. Fact Sheet. 2025.

UNICEF. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) - UNICEF DATA. 2024.