Traditional rulers in two Gombe communities have urged women to speak out against harmful myths and practices that limit their growth, while stressing that advocacy should respect religious and cultural norms.

The call came during a one-day dialogue and sensitisation workshop in Yamaltu-Deba Local Government Area, which brought together religious and traditional leaders, women fellowships, female traditional title holders, and development partners.

The District Head of Zambuk, Alhaji Ibrahim Usman, and the District Head of Liji, Abdulhameed Abubakar Aliyu, encouraged women to know their rights and mobilise collectively for social and economic empowerment. They also urged them to engage with the Gombe State Chief Judge for guidance on legal protections against gender-based violence (GBV).

The workshop was organised by the Foundation for Community Empowerment Initiative (FOCEI) in collaboration with Women Aid Collective (WACOL). FOCEI is running a two-year project titled “Empowering Christian Women and Women Leaders of Culture for Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria.” The project aims to strengthen grassroots organisations and promote gender justice.

Speaking at the event, FOCEI Team Lead Benjamin Maina highlighted the role of traditional and religious leaders in ensuring equal opportunities and protecting women’s rights.

Resource persons addressed topics such as understanding GBV, rethinking cultural norms for gender equality, and Nigeria’s legal frameworks for preventing and responding to GBV. Participants also discussed barriers and opportunities for collaboration between religious, cultural, and government stakeholders.

The rulers pledged continued support for initiatives that create a safe and enabling environment for women to develop and achieve their full potential.