By Richard Benjamin
A national commission has called on religious leaders across Nigeria to take a more active role in combating gender-based violence (GBV), urging them to use their platforms to challenge harmful practices, support survivors and promote gender equality.
The appeal was made during a stakeholders’ engagement, where officials stressed that faith leaders occupy positions of trust and are well placed to influence attitudes and behaviours within their communities.
A representative of the commission said religious leaders should speak openly against domestic violence, sexual abuse, forced marriage and other forms of GBV, while encouraging survivors to seek justice and appropriate support.
“Religious leaders occupy a unique position of trust and moral authority. By speaking out in places of worship and community gatherings, they can help change harmful attitudes, encourage reporting and support survivors,” the official said.
The commission also urged religious institutions to collaborate with government agencies, civil society organisations and traditional leaders in strengthening efforts to prevent violence against women and girls.
Officials further called for regular training to equip religious leaders with knowledge of relevant laws, including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, and referral pathways for survivors requiring medical, legal and psychosocial support.
The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community-based responses to gender-based violence through partnerships with faith-based organisations and other stakeholders.
Participants pledged to promote anti-GBV messages during sermons, counselling sessions and community outreach programmes as part of efforts to reduce violence and protect vulnerable groups.
