Abuja:The Mario Pathfinders Empowerment Foundation (MarioPEF) has urged the nurturing of boys to adopt positive masculinity to help prevent gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria. Pastor Eke Aki, the foundation’s founding Executive Director, emphasized this approach during MarioPEF’s Parents’ Leadership Conference themed ‘Grooming Young Allies on GBV Prevention Faith-Based Approach.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the conference was supported by the Ford Foundation in collaboration with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD). Aki highlighted that the initiative aims to foster responsible boys who grow into men who respect women and promote healthy gender relationships.
Aki explained that the foundation was created to add value to families and society and that this conference represented the first effort under their new initiative. The program encourages the belief that strength in men comes not from domination but from responsibility, respect, and partnership with women, grounded in biblical principles.
Although acknowledging that men can also suffer from GBV, Aki stressed that women are disproportionately affected, necessitating increased prevention efforts and support for male victims. He called for collective efforts to address GBV and announced plans for developing educational materials to support the initiative.
Dr. Otive Igbuzor, the keynote speaker and Founding Executive Director of Centre LSD, pointed out that GBV is a significant concern that requires intentional prevention strategies. He commended MarioPEF for targeting the next generation of boys with positive masculine values, which he believes is essential for tackling the issue.
Participant Gold Glasgow appreciated the focus on boys and men at the conference, highlighting its potential to help them understand their vulnerabilities and develop healthier relationship attitudes, ultimately leading to better men and responsible fathers.