The Male Feminist Network (MFN) has called on Nigerian men to actively join the movement for gender equality and the elimination of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in society. The group emphasized that the fight for gender justice is not solely a women’s issue but a collective human responsibility that requires men’s full participation.

Speaking during a press briefing in Uyo, Peace Edem, MFN’s Coordinator for Akwa Ibom, Delta, and Cross River States, highlighted the growing cases of gender discrimination and violence in Nigeria. She noted that only when men become true allies can society overcome fear, bias, and gender inequality. The event was facilitated by Youth for Change Initiative, with support from Value Rebirth Empowerment Initiative and the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (CentreLSD).

Edem lamented Nigeria’s 130th ranking out of 146 countries on the 2023 Global Gender Gap Report, describing it as a wake-up call. She said the network aims to redefine masculinity by encouraging men to become protectors, partners, and advocates for fairness. “Gender justice is not a women’s fight; it’s a human fight,” she stated. “We are calling on men to be voices of reason and not oppressors.”

She explained that the MFN’s mission is to raise male champions who will challenge harmful traditional practices such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, body shaming, and widowhood rites. According to her, empowering women strengthens families, communities, and the nation as a whole.

Also speaking, Anietie Bassey (Esq), President of the Male Advocate Unit of the GBV Management Committee in Akwa Ibom, urged the media to use its influence to promote awareness and change perceptions about gender equality. In his goodwill message, Usoro Peter, Senior Program Officer of Abundant Word of Faith Foundation, commended the initiative and called for sustained advocacy to eliminate discrimination within homes, churches, and communities.