As part of efforts to promote gender equity and combat gender-based violence (GBV), the Neighbourhood Environment Watch (NEW) Foundation has initiated a stakeholder engagement process for the establishment of the Male Feminist Network (MFN) in Abia State, Southeastern Nigeria.
The inaugural event, held at Chidi Nwosu Freedom Hall, Odim Plaza, Aba, marked the beginning of the network’s rollout across the South-East geopolitical zone.
Organised in collaboration with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD) and supported by the Ford Foundation, the forum brought together influential male leaders from religious and traditional institutions, transport and trade unions, civil society organisations, youth and women’s groups, and government agencies.
In his welcome address, Dr Kelechukwu Okezie, Executive Director of the NEW Foundation, addressed common misconceptions surrounding feminism, stressing that the ideology is not in opposition to religion or culture.
“Feminism is not a war against men. It is a global call for justice and equality between the sexes politically, socially, and economically,” he said.
He explained that the Male Feminist Network is a key component of the NEW Foundation’s wider gender advocacy efforts, supported by the Ford Foundation, geared towards inclusive development and social transformation in the region.
According to Okezie, the network aims to mobilise men across the South-East to embrace feminist principles, champion positive masculinity, and actively challenge harmful gender norms that fuel GBV.
He emphasised that achieving gender justice requires the active involvement of men as allies, advocates, and community influencers.
Delivering a goodwill message, Barr. Amaka Biachi, Executive Director of the African Centre for Human Advancement and Resource Support (CHARS-Africa), lauded the initiative as both timely and essential.
She noted that feminism is rooted in mutual respect and partnership between men and women and aligns with cultural and spiritual values that uphold dignity and fairness.
Also speaking at the event, Mr Okoye Chuka Peter of the Abia Civil Society Network (ACSON) recalled the network’s prior engagement in the HeForShe campaign, which focused on raising gender awareness among young people.
He welcomed the MFN as “a powerful revival of that vision,” pledging ACSON’s full support.
“A real man is one who defends the dignity of others and stands against all forms of violence,” he said.
An interactive session followed, where participants engaged in deep and reflective dialogue, sharing personal experiences and practical strategies for promoting gender equity in their communities.
Key discussion points included challenging toxic masculinity, rethinking traditional gender roles, and supporting survivor-centred GBV responses.
At the close of the engagement, stakeholders unanimously committed to join and actively support the Male Feminist Network in Abia State, promote positive masculinity and gender-equitable practices in their communities, and strengthen collaboration among civil society, religious groups, and traditional institutions to eradicate GBV.
They also advocated for continued public sensitisation and policy reforms to institutionalise gender justice across the region.
They hinted at the meeting as a renewed commitment among participants to serve as role models and change agents in the fight against gender-based violence.
