The Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), in partnership with UN Women, has urged religious leaders across Nigeria to lead the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in their communities. During a two-day workshop held in Lagos, the clergy were equipped with strategies to combat GBV at the grassroots level. The collaboration emphasized the unique influence religious leaders wield in shaping societal values, calling on clergy to eradicate gender-based harm.
OAIC Regional President, Dr. Israel Akinadewo, underscored the responsibility of religious leaders to create real change beyond the pulpit. He explained that their influence extends to shaping policies and preventing violence before it escalates, stating, “It is better to prevent violence than to spend resources on prosecution. Spreading this message will save victims from suffering and relieve pressure on the legal system.”
The Role of Religious Leadership in Shaping Societal Norms
Religious leaders are crucial in reshaping long-standing perceptions about gender. Dr. Akinadewo emphasized that ingrained beliefs about male superiority contribute to GBV, and religious teachings can dismantle these attitudes. With the right advocacy, leaders can transform their communities by promoting equality and supporting legal structures designed to protect women and girls.
Addressing the Global and Local Impact of GBV
Ibrahim Nurudeen, Programme Officer for UN Women, shared alarming global statistics during his presentation. He highlighted that 1 in 3 women worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence, with developing countries like Nigeria facing some of the worst effects. He explained how GBV not only devastates families but also damages national economies, with global losses estimated at $3 trillion annually due to diminished productivity.
Biblical Perspectives on Gender Equality
At the workshop, Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), reinforced the importance of using biblical teachings to challenge harmful cultural norms. He noted that the church stands to lose if it overlooks the talents and contributions of women. By promoting gender equality through faith-based teachings, the church can play a pivotal role in reversing the trends of gender-based violence.
Conclusion
Religious leaders are at the forefront of changing societal norms and reducing gender-based violence. For more resources on gender equality and the role of religious institutions in advocacy, visit our store to explore relevant documents that dive deeper into these critical topics.
