Attitudes of youths towards female circumcision in Nigeria: implications for future practice

Ayodeji J Kupoluyi, Joseph Ayo Babalola University
Ambrose Akinlo, Obafemi Awolowo University
Sulaimon Adedokun, Obafemi Awolowo University

Female circumcision persists despite a growing body of knowledge about its health and psychological harm. In recent times, efforts had intensified locally and internationally to eradicate this cultural practice. Circumcision is done almost universally during infancy, when the infants have no say on whether or not they are circumcised. This study examines the attitude/disposition of youths towards female circumcision as an indicator of the future of the traditional practice. Data for the study was obtained from the last published DHS survey in Nigeria, NDHS 2003. Analysis for the paper was based on 1563 females and 401 males aged 15-24 years who have heard of female circumcision. It was found that the practice is fast declining in northern part of the country though the same cannot be said of the southern regions. The study identifies the southwest region as a special area for focus in the fight against the harmful practice.