Variability Analysis of Female Genital Mutilation and Developments in Nigeria

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a persistent violation of women's rights in Nigeria, despite increasing developments in education, healthcare, and legal frameworks. This paper examines the variability of FGM prevalence and associated socio-cultural determinants in Nigeria, subjecting available survey reports to demographic analysis and developing relevant variables for assessing the prevailing situation. Analysis of data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Surveys (NDHS) and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS 2021) reveals a national decline in prevalence, from 25% in 2013 to approximately 14% in 2024. However, significant state-level heterogeneities persist, with FGM prevalence increasing in some regions such as Nasarawa (18.9% increase) and the South-South zone, while declining substantially in others like Kaduna (nearly 40% decrease). The study confirms that while more women and men support the continuation of the practice than oppose it, the gap between support and rejection is narrowing. This paper recommends intensified community-based interventions, legal enforcement, and survivor-led advocacy to accelerate the elimination of FGM in Nigeria by 2030.