The Centre for Information Technology and Development has called on men to actively join the fight against gender-based violence and support the promotion of gender equality in their communities.

The appeal was made on Monday during a one-day training session for Male Feminist Network champions held at the headquarters of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kano.

The training, which attracted 70 participants, was organised for CAN members in Kano with support from the Ford Foundation through the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development.

CITAD also urged men across communities to actively support efforts aimed at ending gender-based violence and promoting gender equality.

The MFN project officer at CITAD, Sani Sa’idu, said the initiative was designed to equip men with the knowledge and skills needed to challenge gender-based violence.

According to him, the initiative also aims to promote inclusive and respectful communities.

Mr Sa’idu explained that 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, challenge harmful stereotypes, and end 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 advocates for inclusive and safe communities.

The chairman of the Youth Wing of CAN in the state, Samaila Asake, commended CITAD for extending the initiative to faith-based organisations.

Mr Asake noted that engaging men, particularly within religious institutions, was critical to addressing gender-based violence and fostering positive masculinity.

Similarly, the CAN secretary in the state, Ayuba Sabo, praised CITAD for organising the training and called for sustained collaboration to tackle social challenges.

“The church has a key role to play in promoting the values of respect, justice, and the protection of the rights of women and girls,” he said.

(NAN)