4 September 2026 | Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Imo Synod, Owerri, Imo State
The Male Feminists Network (MFN) is strengthening partnerships with faith-based institutions to promote human rights, gender equality, positive values, and collective action against gender-based violence (GBV).
As part of this effort, Dr. Kelechukwu Okezie led the MFN advocacy team in an engagement with Most Rev. Ogbu Thompson (PhD), Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Imo Synod, Owerri, Imo State, on 4 September 2026. The engagement focused on the critical role of men and the church in preventing GBV and promoting safer, more inclusive communities.
During the engagement, Dr. Okezie explained the work of the Male Feminists Network and its commitment to engaging men as allies and advocates for gender equality, human rights, and the prevention of violence.
He noted that issues of GBV are often championed predominantly by women, but emphasised that men must become active participants in the solution by challenging harmful social norms, speaking against violence, and promoting respectful relationships.
Dr. Okezie also highlighted the strategic role of the church as an institution with significant influence in shaping values and behaviours. He stressed that the church has a critical role to play in the promotion and protection of human rights, and that a united faith-based voice against GBV can contribute significantly to changing attitudes and preventing violence within families and communities.
Responding to the advocacy, Most Rev. Ogbu Thompson (PhD) affirmed the Presbyterian Church’s commitment to gender sensitivity, human dignity, and the prevention of violence.
He noted that gender inclusion is important within the church’s leadership structures, stating:
“The church is always gender-sensitive in all we do. Any committee we establish without a woman is not complete.”
Most Rev. Thompson further made it clear that the church does not condone violence against women or any other form of GBV.
“We don’t support any form of GBV. We don’t consider men who maltreat their wives as real men.”
He expressed willingness to explore ways of taking the programme to the grassroots, recognising that meaningful change requires sustained community education and engagement.
A Collective Call to Action
Men must speak out.
Women must be heard.
Faith leaders must lead.
Communities must act.
Through continued engagement with faith-based institutions and community leaders, MFN is working to strengthen collective responsibility for preventing GBV and promoting communities where everyone is treated with dignity, equality, and respect.
