The Kozaki Transformation and Development Foundation has continued its ambitious training of 1,000 male allies under the Male Feminist Network (MFN) Project, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to raising a new generation of men who champion gender justice and actively stand against gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria. The training kicked off on October 18th, 2025, with strong momentum across North Central Nigeria, and today, October 25th, a significant milestone has been reached as the first 100 participants have successfully completed the MFN online course, earning their certification as committed Male Allies ready to influence positive masculinity in their various communities.
From the very first day, participation has been robust and diverse. Mechanics, Barbers, Okada Riders, and members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) remain the primary targets of the project, reflecting the Foundation’s focus on reaching men who serve as daily influencers and opinion shapers at the grassroots level.
In Plateau State, State Facilitator Piwa James reported a lively turnout with over 20 passionate participants drawn from Barbers, Okada Riders, Mechanics, and Keke Riders unions who demonstrated keen interest and pledged to drive positive change. Nasarawa State Facilitator, Francis, also recorded a vibrant session filled with interaction and a strong desire for transformation. Meanwhile, in Benue State, the movement continues to surge as Facilitator Agur Solomon Iordye successfully trained 20 men in Makurdi, while Facilitator Simon Agbende coordinated training for an additional 40 men in Gboko. All participants have been enrolled in the Male Feminism online training organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development (Centre LSD), an initiative designed to deepen their understanding of allyship, equality, and GBV prevention.
The MFN Project is funded by the Ford Foundation, with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD) serving as a major implementing partner. With a national target of 10,000 trained male allies, this project stands as a bold movement to ensure that Nigerian men become advocates for safer homes, communities, and systems where the dignity of women and girls is fully protected.
Kozaki Transformation and Development Foundation, the implementing partner in North Central Nigeria, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to changing harmful norms through education, advocacy, and community-wide engagement. Speaking on the progress, the Foundation’s Executive Director, Rev. Fr. Bar. Isaiah Ter, celebrated the pace of achievements so far and emphasized that the newly certified Male Allies will serve as living examples of mutual respect, equality, and responsible masculinity, empowering more men to join this rising wave of social transformation.