Pulse.ng : Men Takes Lead in Promoting Gender-Inclusive Peacebuilding in Kaduna

By Sani Idris Abdulrahman

As part of efforts to deepen gender equality and promote inclusive peacebuilding at the community level, the Gender Awareness Trust (GAT) has successfully conducted a series of Male Allies Sensitization Forums across Kaduna South, Sabon Gari, and Zangon Kataf Local Government Areas in Kaduna State.

The initiative, supported by the SPRiNG Programme, an initiative of the UK Government implemented by Tetra Tech International Development.

It seeks to increase male engagement for gender-inclusive peacebuilding, foster positive masculinity, and strengthen men’s roles in preventing gender-based violence and community conflicts.

Over the course of the forums, 90 participants including community leaders, youth representatives, traditional and religious actors, and members of community-based peace structures came together to discuss practical strategies for advancing women’s participation in peace and decision-making processes at the grassroots level.

The forums provided an interactive space for men to reflect on their roles as partners and advocates in shaping peaceful and equitable communities. Discussions covered challenging harmful gender norms, understanding the impact of gender-based violence, and strengthening collaboration between men and women in peacebuilding.

A participant from Sabon Gari Local Government Area said the sessions transformed his perception of women’s roles in peace processes, noting that peace cannot be complete without women’s voices and that men must see women as partners, not competitors.

Speaking during the closing session, the Executive Director of GAT, Dr. Lydia Umar, commended the enthusiasm and commitment displayed by male participants throughout the forums.

Umar, represented by Halima Abba Ibrahim, emphasized that achieving sustainable peace requires the active participation of both men and women.

“Our goal is to foster a society where inclusivity, mutual respect, and collaboration form the foundation of peace. Men’s involvement is crucial in achieving that vision,” she said.

Umar added that gender-inclusive peacebuilding is not about replacing men with women in leadership but about ensuring every voice is heard and valued in resolving conflicts and building stronger, more resilient communities.

Participants engaged in interactive discussions, group dialogues, and experience-sharing sessions focused on positive masculinity, inclusive leadership, and community-driven conflict prevention. The forums also explored ways traditional and cultural values can promote respect, equality, and cooperation between men and women.

At the end of the sensitization series, participants made personal and collective commitments to support women’s participation in peace committees, speak out against gender-based violence, and advocate for inclusive governance in their communities.

The Male Allies Sensitization Forums are part of GAT’s broader Building Inclusive Peace Project, which aims to equip community-based peace structures and local actors across Kaduna and Katsina States with knowledge, skills, and tools to lead gender-responsive conflict prevention and peace response initiatives.

The project aligns with Nigeria’s Women, Peace, and Security Framework and supports the implementation of the Kaduna and Katsina State Action Plans, which emphasize the meaningful participation of women and persons with disabilities in peace and security processes.