Men from various sectors have stepped forward to take active role in the fight against gender-based violence, as the Male Feminist Nigeria (MFN) Project was launched in Pankshin, Plateau State .
The event, organised by the Kozaki Transformation and Development Foundation, brought together stakeholders including traditional rulers, religious leaders, transport union executives, barbers and other key actors united in the mission of promoting male engagement in ending gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, the stakeholders’ engagement meeting marks the advancement of the MFN Project across North Central Nigeria focused on engaging men as allies in promoting gender justice and challenging harmful societal norms.
Communication officer of the MFN Project Caleb Akighir in his address emphasised the need to confront entrenched patriarchal ideologies.
He warned that negative masculinity is damaging not only to women and girls but also to men, who are often confined by unrealistic and harmful gender expectations.
Similarly, Manfred Akpen, programme officer of the MFN Project who delivered a keynote presentation titled “Becoming a Male Ally: From Conviction to Consistency called on men to go beyond symbolic gestures and instead demonstrate consistent action in advancing gender equity within their communities.
The participants embraced the message, expressing readiness to become ambassadors of male feminism in their communities.
Representatives from transport unions, barbers, local academic institutions, religious and traditional councils, and community-based groups pledged to actively promote positive masculinity and help dismantle violence-supportive norms.
Rev. Dr. Kashim Basil, the coordinator of JDPC Caritas, welcomed participants on behalf of Very Rev. Fr. Barr. Isaiah Ter, the rxecutive director of the Kozaki Foundation, while prayers were offered by Fr. Gogwim to open the session.
The engagement marks a significant milestone for the MFN Project in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria and sets the tone for further expansion across the region.
Pankshin now serves as a critical hub in a growing movement for male-led advocacy against gender-based violence.
