**Kwara State Leads the Charge Against Female Genital Mutilation** In a renewed commitment to protect the rights of women and girls, the Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its determination to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the state. This bold move comes as the government reviews its 2026-2030 Action Plan on FGM, a harmful practice that affects countless women and girls across Nigeria. At a stakeholders' review meeting in Ilorin, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Opeyemi Oluwakemi Afolashade, urged a multi-sectoral approach to tackle this issue. According to her, the fight against FGM cannot be left to the government alone, but requires the collaboration of traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, law enforcement agencies, and community members. This is a crucial step, given the complex cultural and social dynamics surrounding FGM in Nigeria. The Kwara State Government has already demonstrated its commitment to ending harmful practices against women and children. The implementation of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and the Child Rights Law in the state are notable examples of this effort. The government has also strengthened the enforcement of relevant laws, including advocacy visits to first-class traditional rulers and the appointment of champions for the eradication of FGM. To reach the grassroots, the ministry has embarked on advocacy visits to schools, religious organisations, and market leaders. This is a deliberate effort to take the message of FGM eradication to the communities where it matters most. The Commissioner commended the tireless efforts of the Child Rights Implementation Committee and other stakeholders in promoting the welfare of children in the state. However, for FGM to be effectively tackled, accurate data is crucial. The Director of Public Health in the Ministry of Health, Oluwatosin Fakayode, stressed the need for reliable data to inform policy decisions and interventions. This is a critical point, given the fragmented nature of data on FGM in Nigeria. In conclusion, the Kwara State Government's renewed commitment to ending FGM is a significant step forward in the fight against this harmful practice. By embracing a multi-sectoral approach and engaging with key stakeholders, the government can make meaningful progress in protecting the rights of women and girls in the state. As the government reviews its 2026-2030 Action Plan, it is imperative that all stakeholders make meaningful contributions to this effort.