The dRPC is launching the project "Transforming Muslim Opinion Leaders (MOLs) as Champions for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention and Response in Northern Nigeria." With funding from the Ford Foundation, the project aims to prevent GBV by empowering MOLs to educate communities on the correct Islamic perspective on GBV.
MOLs, predominantly male, hold significant moral and religious authority, influencing both traditional and contemporary spheres of society. Their guidance extends to religious practices, social justice, and gender equality, shaping policies and societal norms. They serve as advisors through direct consultations, public declarations, and interpretations of Islamic law within the judicial system. Additionally, MOLs act as moral watchdogs, upholding societal values.
The project will engage 24 Traditional and Muslim Opinion Leaders from Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, and Zamfara States over a two-year period. The selection process prioritizes diversity, ensuring representation across various demographics and ideological perspectives.
The primary goal is to strengthen sustainable GBV prevention and response in Northwestern Nigeria by empowering MOLs as champions and advocates for policy change through peer-to-peer learning. The dRPC is collaborating with CICID to foster sustainable change in addressing GBV by aligning with Islamic perspectives on women’s protection and empowerment. The partnership focuses on Supporting and guiding MOLs in implementing state-focused action plans, replicating peer-to-peer study tours in Nigeria and strengthening the capacity of MOLs to champion GBV prevention strategies.