Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or any other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. FGM has been categorized into four types, ranging from a symbolic prick to the clitoris or prepuce, to the fairly extensive removal and narrowing of the vaginal opening.

The most common form of FGM found in Nigeria is type 3. FGM is sometimes known as ‘female genital cutting’ or female circumcision. Communities tend to use local names for referring to this practice, including ‘sunna’.or katna. FGM represents one of the manifestations of gross gender inequalities depriving a girl, a woman of her integrity and that creates and sustains power imbalances that limit access to opportunities and resources and, prevent girls and women from realizing their rights and full potentials. FGM is considered a grave violation of the rights of girls and women.