The Kozaki Transformation and Development Foundation in Gboko, Benue State, has urged Nigerians to actively expose perpetrators of gender-based violence (GBV) as part of efforts to promote national unity, peace, and development.
During a stakeholders’ engagement meeting of the Male Feminists Network held on Tuesday in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, the Foundation’s Communication Officer, Mr. Akirghir Caleb, emphasized the importance of collective action. The event was organized in collaboration with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, with support from the Ford Foundation.
Caleb explained that the Male Feminists Network is a Nigerian-led initiative aimed at recruiting, training, and mobilizing men to participate actively in ending GBV and fostering gender equality. He stressed that the network seeks to transform men from passive bystanders into proactive allies committed to dismantling patriarchal systems that perpetuate inequality.
“Let’s go out to voice out and speak against GBV. Let’s change the narrative positively for unity, peace, and societal development,” Caleb urged.
Additionally, the Foundation’s Programme Manager, Mr. Akpen Manfred, called on stakeholders to educate their communities about GBV and advocate for women’s rights. “Let’s all protect and promote women’s rights wherever we are. Don’t deny women their rights. Let’s speak out and stand up for women,” he said, stressing the need for greater collaboration to eradicate GBV.
Earlier, the Foundation’s Executive Director, Rev. Fr. Isaiah Ter, represented by Rev. Fr. Jude Maigari of the Justice Development and Peace Foundation in Lafia, highlighted that the Male Feminists Network is designed to engage men as allies in challenging harmful patriarchal norms.
“The stakeholder meeting is a call for a shared vision of a society where daughters can walk freely without fear, women’s voices are heard in decision-making, and men and women work side by side as partners in building peace and progress,” he stated.
The gathering included traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society representatives, government officials, academics, and members of the Motorcycle Association, among others.
In related news, Punch Online reported that the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has expressed support for a proposal to convene a national roundtable of religious leaders. The aim is to enhance advocacy for girls’ education and combat gender-based violence in Nigeria.
The Sultan announced his endorsement during a courtesy visit from a delegation of the Development Research and Projects Centre at his palace. Inspired by the global Religions for Peace interfaith summit, where he serves as Co-President, the initiative seeks to rally faith leaders around a shared agenda of protecting women and girls.
