Men across Oyo State are being mobilized as frontline advocates in the fight against gender-based violence, with a renewed emphasis on prioritizing family well-being and actively protecting women and girls.
This call to action concluded a one-day training workshop in Ibadan for the Male Feminist Network, organized by the New Initiative for Social Development in partnership with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development. The session brought together artisans, youth leaders, and community figures to strategize on promoting women’s rights and positive male engagement.
Programme Officer Mr. Segun Ojo underscored the critical need for men to join feminist movements, stating that ending GBV requires their active involvement. He urged participants to become role models and disseminate the training’s lessons within their communities.
The project, currently implemented across Oyo, Ekiti, Osun, and Ondo states, aims to significantly reduce violence against women.
Facilitator Mr. Abdulsalam AbdulQuadri Olusegun described men as natural allies in the struggle for women’s rights, encouraging them to be “He for She” defenders. He lamented the rise in societal toxicity and weak advocacy, calling on men to become ambassadors against all forms of abuse.
He also highlighted that both major faiths; Christianity and Islam, condemn the mistreatment of women and warned that offenders would face legal consequences.
Participants pledged to protect the rights of their wives, daughters, and sisters. University of Ibadan student Jeremiah vowed to promote respect among his peers, while taxi operator Mr. Oladapo Adebambo and community member Mr. Oluwayemi Ibidapo committed to spreading the message for change.
The forum concluded with a unanimous resolution to eradicate harmful practices, including Female Genital Mutilation and all forms of GBV. Organizers plan to expand the program to more communities in the coming months.
