Cross section of participants
In a resounding endorsement of Baobab for Women’s Human Rights’ (BAOBAB) “Redefining Masculinity” initiative, participants at the Ado-Ekiti gathering have vowed to reject toxic masculinity and champion the empowerment of the girl child.
The one-day session, which brought together 100 students and 20 male teachers from 10 secondary schools across Ekiti State, provided a platform for participants to express remorse for their past complicity in perpetuating harmful gender stereotypes and to pledge to become agents of change.
Honourable Commissioner for Education in Ekiti State, Dr Kofoworola Olabimpe Aderiye, represented by Director, Evaluation and Standard Department, Abodunde Samuel Olatunde, commended BAOBAB for organizing the initiative, saying it would be replicated in other schools across the state with government support.
“The gathering provided a space for teachers and students to confront the ways in which they have contributed to the marginalization of the girl child,” said Aderiye. “We are committed to working with BAOBAB to ensure that this initiative has a lasting impact on our students and schools.”
Students, who participated in interactive sessions and discussions, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn about positive masculinity and to develop practical skills to promote gender equality.
“I didn’t know that it was wrong to intimidate or belittle girls,” said John Olajide, a student from Ado Grammar School, Ado Ekiti.. “I promise to be a better ally and to stand up for my female friends.”
“For me, it was a wake-up call,” added Adeola Samuel, a teacher from Anglican High School. “I realized that I have been perpetuating some of these harmful behaviors myself. I am committed to doing better.”
The students’ newfound awareness was evident in their enthusiastic participation in a talent show, where they performed skits, songs, and poems that promoted positive masculinity and gender equality.
The success of the “Redefining Masculinity” initiative has sparked hope that a new generation of Nigerian men is emerging, committed to rejecting toxic masculinity and promoting gender equality.
BAOBAB plans to replicate the program in all 36 states of Nigeria, with the goal of reaching 100,000 young men and boys by the end of the year.
