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Veteran Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) has called on Nigerian men to become active advocates for gender equality, insisting that the responsibility of protecting women’s rights should not be left to women alone.
The award-winning actor made the appeal on Friday in Abuja after officially joining the Male Feminists Network, a movement that encourages men to support efforts aimed at eliminating gender-based violence and promoting equal opportunities for women.
Speaking during the event, RMD stressed that meaningful progress can only be achieved when men actively challenge harmful cultural attitudes and stand alongside women in the fight against discrimination and abuse.
Men Must Become Part Of The Solution
According to the veteran actor, gender-based violence remains a major social problem that requires collective action rather than placing the burden solely on women and advocacy groups.
He argued that men have an important role to play in changing negative attitudes, challenging stereotypes and creating safer environments for women and girls.
RMD explained that supporting women’s rights should not be viewed as a women’s issue alone but as a broader human rights concern that affects families and society as a whole.
He urged Nigerian men to use their influence to speak against abuse while encouraging healthier and more respectful relationships.
Women Have Proven Their Capabilities
While addressing participants at the gathering, the actor also highlighted the importance of giving women greater opportunities to occupy leadership positions.
Drawing from his experience in the Nigerian film industry, RMD said women consistently demonstrate professionalism, commitment and efficiency when entrusted with responsibilities.
“Personally, when I did a film two years ago, I had like 80 percent women in the crew. And I always say to people in my profession, if you want to have anything done in government, put a woman in charge, and you can sleep with ‘your eyes closed,’” he said.
According to him, recognising women’s abilities and creating more opportunities for them would contribute significantly to national development.
Respect Should Replace Violence
RMD also condemned all forms of violence against women, urging men to replace aggression with communication and mutual respect.
He emphasised that disagreements within relationships should never become excuses for physical abuse.
Instead, he encouraged men to treat women with the same care, dignity and consideration they would expect others to show their wives, daughters or sisters.
“Just give respect to women and treat them like human beings. Or treat them like the way you would treat your daughter or your wife, with respect, with dignity. You know, don’t objectify them, don’t perpetrate violence. Correcting them does not mean hitting and beating them. It is easier to talk to people these days than to just use your fist.”
The actor added that healthy communication remains one of the most effective ways of resolving conflict without causing emotional or physical harm.
Calling For Institutional Change
Beyond personal behaviour, RMD also pointed to systemic challenges affecting women across Nigeria.
He argued that discriminatory practices remain embedded in certain institutions and social structures, making it difficult for many women to enjoy equal rights and opportunities.
According to him, addressing these issues requires the support of both men and women working together toward lasting reforms.
“There are institutionalized and systemic ways that women’s rights are trampled upon in Nigeria, and it is not something only women can fight. We also have to lend our voices to organizations working for women’s rights and against gender-based violence,” he said.
Community Leaders Also Have A Role
Public affairs analyst and gender advocate Dr Otive Igbuzor, who also addressed the gathering, echoed RMD’s message by stressing the importance of involving influential community figures in the campaign against gender-based violence.
He said traditional rulers, religious leaders and respected public figures possess the influence needed to change attitudes and encourage greater respect for women’s rights.
According to Igbuzor, sustained awareness campaigns and stronger community engagement are essential if Nigeria hopes to reduce cases of abuse and discrimination against women.
RMD’s remarks have since generated conversations online, with many Nigerians praising the actor for encouraging men to become allies in promoting equality and ending violence against women.
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