Christian Leaders Urged To Take Lead In Combating Violence Against Women In Nigeria

ABUJA, NIGERIA – UN Women and the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OIAC) have issued a powerful call to action, urging Christian leaders to escalate their efforts in curbing violence against women and girls in Nigeria.

This appeal was made during a two-day workshop organized by UN Women and the Ford Foundation, focusing on equipping Christian leaders with the knowledge and resources to fight gender-based violence (GBV).

The workshop, attended by prominent members of the OAIC, a community of leaders from various Christian denominations, aimed to raise awareness about the multifaceted nature of GBV, inspire collective action within churches, and foster a network of religious leaders dedicated to eradicating violence against women.

“One in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime,” stated the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) further highlights the severity of GBV, reporting that an estimated 137 women are killed daily by a partner or family member globally.

In Nigeria, GBV remains a pervasive issue, manifesting in forms such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and harmful traditional practices.

These issues are often rooted in cultural norms and religious misinterpretations that justify violence and discrimination against women and girls.

Recognising the significant influence religious leaders hold in their communities, the workshop aimed to empower them to challenge these harmful norms.

“The workshop is intended to impact sermons delivered by clergies and Christian leaders,” explained UN Women in a statement.

“We aim to ensure that messages delivered from the pulpit offer interpretations of religious texts that address gender inequality, condemn GBV and harmful traditional practices, and promote gender justice.”

During the workshop, UN Women Programmes Officer Ibrahim Nurudeen led sessions that demystified harmful social norms and beliefs prevalent within religious communities.

Participants acknowledged the need to adapt certain religious tenets to address contemporary issues.

“We must use this opportunity to deal with the deprivation of opportunities for female members to exercise their God-given talents by their spouses and the leadership of their churches,” emphasized Rev. Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria.

“We must first address these issues connected to GBV before we can effectively give moral leadership in this advocacy and the battle against it.”

The workshop provided an in-depth analysis of GBV’s socio-economic impact, its implications, and the crucial role religious leaders play in combating it.

Participants were equipped with strategies to incorporate gender equality principles in their messages, marriage counselling, and promoting healthy and respectful relationships.

“Conclusively, as a noble organization like ours, I would appeal that after these sessions, we become champions of spiritual battalions combating any form of GBV,” declared Israel Akinadewo, President of OIAC Nigeria.

Through empowering religious leaders with the knowledge and tools they need, UN Women aims to drive a transformative socio-cultural shift towards a more just, equitable, and violence-free society in Nigeria and across West Africa.

This initiative represents a crucial step towards tackling the pervasive issue of GBV and ensuring a brighter future for women and girls.