The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has urged men to actively join the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) and support the promotion of gender equality across communities.
The appeal was made on Monday during a one-day training organised for Male Feminist Network (MFN) champions at the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) headquarters in Kano.
The training, which attracted 70 participants, was organised for members of CAN, Kano State chapter. The programme was supported by the Ford Foundation through the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development.
Speaking at the event, MFN Project Officer, Mr Sani Sa’idu, said the initiative was aimed at equipping men with the knowledge and skills to challenge gender-based violence and promote inclusive and respectful communities.
Sa’idu, who spoke on the topic “Gender, Feminism, Masculinities and GBV Awareness”, said the training was designed to build a movement of men committed to equality and the elimination of GBV.
“The aim of this training is to build a movement of men who are committed to equality, challenging harmful stereotypes and ending gender-based violence,” he said.
He added that the programme sought to empower men to become allies in the struggle for women’s rights and to advocate for inclusive and safe communities.
Also speaking, Apostle Samaila Joshua Asake, Chairman of the Youth Wing of CAN in Kano State, commended CITAD for taking the initiative to faith-based organisations.
Asake said engaging men, especially within religious institutions, was critical to addressing gender-based violence and fostering positive masculinity.
Similarly, the Secretary of CAN in Kano State, Rev. Ayuba Apollos Sabo, praised CITAD for organising the training and called for sustained collaboration to address social challenges.
“The church has a key role to play in promoting values of respect, justice and protection of the rights of women and girls,” Sabo said.
CITAD also used the occasion to call on men across communities to actively join efforts aimed at ending gender-based violence and promoting gender equality.
