In today’s society, we are often confronted with cultural practices that conflict with our most fundamental values. This is the case of the practice of breast ironing, also called breast ironing, in the Pygba community in Abuja, recently discussed during a program on the Fatshimetrie channel. At the heart of this controversy, the Minister shared how she managed to abolish this barbaric custom through dialogue and collaboration with traditional chiefs and village chiefs.
Faced with questions about the cultural obstacles hindering the development of women in Nigeria, the Minister outlined the actions taken to put an end to this dangerous practice. She noted that her team visited the Pygba community to sensitize and empower residents, while establishing binding agreements under the law and constitutional provisions to punish violators.
In a poignant testimony, the Minister revealed: “In Pygba, right here in Abuja, about five communities practice breast ironing, using a gourd to flatten a child’s breasts when they start to develop, in order to prevent her from revealing herself. We therefore believe that the young girl will not be attractive to boys. A practice that is both shocking and revolting, perpetrated in the name of outdated traditions that are dangerous for the physical and psychological health of young girls.
Aware of the scale of this scourge, the Minister mobilized local authorities and established special mobile courts to prosecute anyone who dared to engage in such barbaric acts. A necessary approach to put an end to these harmful practices and protect the fundamental rights of girls and women.
Taking into account the trauma inflicted by breast ironing, it is crucial to continue efforts to raise awareness, educate and empower communities to definitively eradicate this obsolete and harmful practice. By working hand in hand with local stakeholders and putting in place strong legal mechanisms, it is possible to reform mindsets and ensure a better and fairer future for all women in Nigeria.
Ultimately, the story of the fight against breast ironing in Pygba illustrates the need to combat harmful customs and promote values of equality, respect for human rights and women’s empowerment. It is by joining forces and daring to break taboos that we will be able to build a world where everyone, every girl, will have the freedom to flourish without fear of being oppressed or mutilated by barbaric traditions.