Children are not aware that they have undergone FGM, Nasarawa state,Nigeria

By Ruth Harley

Eight years ago secondary school teacher Lois Tofunmi Aderomose started an organisation called Goodnews club Philippians mission. This mission centre is located in Mararaba, Nasarawa state in Nigeria. The organisation enrolls 100 children every Sunday, giving them a place to learn and become healthy, responsible individuals, despite the potential struggles at home.

Lois, also working as a secondary school teacher noticed that many children are suffering and need more support and therefore wanted to help change this. Lois recently spoke on Nigerian FM where she discussed the issues that get passed from generation to generation:

If problems exist and get passed from generation to generation, nothing in our society will change. It is my job to amplify the voice of children and put a stop to issues like FGM, and emotional violence.
Lois Tofunmi Aderomose

Since COVID-19 Lois has noticed more and more children suffer from low self-esteem. At the centre she offers counseling for both the parents and children, helping to change things for the better.

Recent events:

To celebrate the day of the child Lois held an event for three days. Lois was visited by the News Agency of Nigeria, and the National Newspaper, reaching the national level.

Wednesday 26th May

Adolescence health talks on sexual health, FGM, and the consequences.

Thursday 27th May

Celebrating children

Friday 28th May

300 children attended a workshop on awareness of FGM and other forms of violence.

Many elders didn’t know what FGM was, and because some cutting happens as a baby they aren’t even sure if they have been cut or if they can ask their parents
Lois Tofunmi Aderomose

Children are also not sure if they are cut, they go away and check and often come back if they think it might have happened, with more questions and curiosity. It’s important when we find out someone has been cut. When we are aware we can give them counseling and talk about the consequences.
Lois Tofunmi Aderomose

Lois has a dream to keep helping children stay academically and morally strong.