A lecturer at Bayero University, Kano, Dr. Auwalu Hallilu, has stressed the urgent need to tackle toxic masculinity in order to address its growing social and emotional consequences in the society.
Presenting a paper at a four-day Train-the-Trainer workshop organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) at Tahir Guest Palace, Dr. Hallilu explained that toxic masculinity contributes significantly to mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, fear, and emotional suppression.
He listed other negative outcomes to include strained relationships, increased violence, and engagement in risky behaviour, noting that these effects often destabilize individuals, families, and communities.
Dr. Hallilu, however, highlighted positive masculinity as an alternative model that promotes empathy, fairness, emotional balance and healthy self-expression without shame. He urged the participants, who are expected to serve as master trainers, to remain sensitive to the cultural values of the communities where they will cascade the training.
Also presenting a paper on gender stereotypes, Mr. Segun Modupe underscored how gender-based assumptions continue to produce harmful consequences in homes, workplaces and society at large. He called for greater public consciousness and deliberate efforts to challenge stereotypes in order to build a more equitable society.
Participants later broke into groups for practical sessions designed to equip them with skills to effectively step down the training in their various communities.
