The One-Stop Centre has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing harmful social norms as part of efforts to promote a more wholesome and inclusive society.
The Communication and Mobilisation Officer, Mr. Sunday Andrew, gave the assurance during a sensitisation meeting in Yola, Adamawa state with youth focused on promoting positive masculinity. He stressed that negative expressions of masculinity remain a major factor in social stagnation, contributing to violence, inequality, and the marginalisation of vulnerable groups.
Mr. Andrew explained that harmful notions of masculinity, often rooted in dominance, aggression, and emotional suppression, hinder social development and weaken community cohesion. He noted that addressing such norms is critical to achieving sustainable social change, particularly among young people who play a key role in shaping future societal values.
During the session, he outlined practical strategies for addressing negative masculinity, including awareness creation, peer education, community dialogue, and the engagement of men and boys as allies in promoting respect, accountability, and non-violence.
He further restated the commitment of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to supporting Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in tackling antisocial behaviours and harmful practices through capacity building, advocacy, and community-based interventions.
Mr. Andrew recalled that UNFPA recently organised a four-day Train-the-Trainer workshop at Tahir Guest Palace, Kano, after which participants were mandated to cascade the training in their respective states. He expressed optimism that the step-down activities would strengthen grassroots efforts to challenge harmful norms, promote positive masculinity, and foster safer, more equitable communities.