CURRENT TRENDS IN THE PRACTICE OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION AMONG RESIDENTS IN AGBOR METROPLIS, DELTA STATE

This study investigates the current trends in the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Agbor Metropolis, Delta State, Nigeria. Despite growing national and international efforts to eliminate the practice, FGM continues to persist in certain communities due to deep-rooted cultural, social, and traditional beliefs. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and utilized structured questionnaires to gather data from selected residents across different wards in Agbor. A total of 150 respondents were randomly selected, comprising of female participants from various age groups and socio-economic backgrounds. The data collected were analyzed using the chi-square (χ²) statistical method to determine the relationship between demographic factors and FGM-related attitudes and practices. Findings revealed that while awareness of the health risks and legal implications of FGM has increased, the practice still exists in some parts of the metropolis, often under the guise of cultural preservation or medicalization. The study also found that the level of education, religion, and exposure to media campaigns significantly influenced respondents’ attitudes toward FGM. Based on these findings, the study recommends sustained community dialogue, stricter enforcement of anti-FGM laws, and culturally sensitive education programs to accelerate the abandonment of the practice. The research contributes to the growing body of literature on FGM in Nigeria and provides evidence-based insights for policymakers and human rights advocates working to end FGM.