By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has commended the new law prescribing a 14-year jail term for sexual harassment in schools, describing it as a major step toward protecting students’ rights and dignity across Nigeria.

Programme Officer of CITAD’s Male Feminist Network Project, Mr. Sani-Saidu Muhammad, gave the commendation during a press conference on Wednesday in Zaria, Kaduna State, while urging men to take an active role in combating gender-based violence (GBV).

Muhammad said the law would serve as a strong deterrent against sexual misconduct and help create safer learning environments nationwide. He also called on state governments to domesticate the law for effective nationwide implementation.

He appealed to states yet to adopt the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and the Child’s Rights Act to do so urgently, emphasizing that these laws are essential for child protection and tackling GBV.

Muhammad further disclosed that CITAD had launched a new initiative titled “Core Support for Network Building of Male Feminists in Support of Gender-Based Violence Prevention in Nigeria.”

According to him, the initiative aims to mobilize men and boys as allies in ending GBV and gender discrimination.

“We recognize that much of the gender-based violence directed at women is perpetrated by men, but we also believe that men’s agency is critical in ending this negative treatment of our womenfolk,” Muhammad said.

Implemented in partnership with the Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development (Centre LSD), the initiative is currently active in Kano, Kaduna, and Jigawa States, with the goal of promoting gender equality and women’s dignity.

Muhammad noted that the network has engaged traditional and religious leaders to denounce harmful practices such as forced marriage, spousal abuse, and the stigmatization of GBV survivors.

He added that CITAD has also utilized digital platforms, including its radio programme “Martabar Ya Mace” (“The Dignity of a Woman”), to promote positive masculinity and gender equality.

Muhammad further highlighted the need to bridge the gender digital divide, pointing out that limited access to technology continues to deepen socio-economic inequalities for women.

“Change begins with each of us — through our words, our actions, and our willingness to challenge silence,” he concluded.