The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Ebonyi State has formally endorsed the Male Feminists Network, a civil society initiative led by the Neighbourhood Environment Watch (NEW) Foundation, aimed at combating gender-based violence (GBV) and promoting gender equality through male engagement.
The endorsement was announced during a courtesy visit by the NEW Foundation team, led by its Executive Director and Project Lead, Dr. Okezie Kelechukwu, to the NHRC’s state office in Abakaliki.
The visit was part of ongoing advocacy under the Male Feminists Network project, which seeks to mobilize men and youths as active allies in the fight against GBV.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Kelechukwu emphasized the need to involve men in challenging cultural norms and stereotypes that perpetuate violence against women and girls.
He outlined the project’s strategic approach, which includes capacity building, media advocacy, mentorship, and the recognition of male champions of gender equality.
“This project is designed to foster an egalitarian society where no gender is oppressed or marginalized,” Okezie stated.
Receiving the delegation, the NHRC’s Acting State Coordinator, Mr. Ejim, commended the NEW Foundation for its consistent work in social and environmental justice.
He pledged the Commission’s support for the initiative and reiterated its commitment to promoting human rights in Ebonyi State.
“We are always open to partnerships that aim to end all forms of human rights violations, especially those affecting vulnerable groups,” Mr. Ejim said.
As part of the engagement, the NHRC and NEW Foundation began the distribution of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to raise awareness on GBV prevention and gender equality across communities in the state.
The Male Feminists Network is being implemented in partnership with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, with support from the Ford Foundation.
It aims to build a network of progressive men, youth leaders, traditional rulers, and faith-based actors committed to dismantling harmful patriarchal practices and advancing women’s rights.
Earlier in the week, the NEW Foundation also visited the Ebonyi Broadcasting Corporation (EBBC), where it sought media partnership to promote positive masculinity and create public awareness on GBV through radio and television programming.
Okezie requested airtime for public sensitization, talk shows, and the inclusion of gender-transformative content in the station’s regular programming.
“EBBC plays a vital role in shaping public opinion. We believe that with media support, the Male Feminists Network will reach a wider audience and drive behavioural change,” he said.
The project also plans to identify and celebrate male feminist champions in local communities and work in synergy with women’s rights organizations to ensure inclusive gender advocacy across the state.
Our correspondent reports that the endorsement by NHRC marked a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between civil society and government institutions in the fight against GBV in Ebonyi State.
