Socio-Cultural Dimensions and Attitude of Women and Community Stakeholders towards Continuation of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Lagos Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

This article examines the socio-cultural dimensions and attitude of women and community stakeholders to the continuation of Female Genital  Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria using Lagos metropolis as a study location. To achieve the objectives of the study, a non-experimental research design was adopted. In the design, cross-sectional survey and in-depth interview research methods were utilized. Thus, a total 350 questionnaires were  administered during the survey among ever married women, while 15  in-depth interviews were organized for male and female youths,  ever-married women and men, community and religious leaders to  complement survey data. Elicited data were analyzed with the aids of  quantitative and qualitative analytical techniques. Findings of the study  reveal that theFGM practice is intricately rooted in the socio-cultural milieu of the people. In addition, the study reveals that there is a significant  relationship between women socio-economic characteristics and their  attitude towards the continuation of FGM practice in the study location.  Specifically women’s age and educational status play significant roles.  Consequently, it has been recommended that a programme aiming to  reduce or eradicate the practice must be holistic in nature with great focus on all segments and the culture of the society.

Key Words: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Socio-Cultural, Community Stakeholders, Attitude, Lagos Metropolis, Nigeria.