Mirian Gom 
Imam of the National Mosque Abuja, Ilyas Usman, presents goodwill keynote address on the Islamic Perspective on GBV
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC), on Thursday launched a two-day dialogue in Abuja addressing gender-based violence (GBV) from an Islamic perspective.
The forum, held with Muslim Opinion Leaders and the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue, featured the unveiling of key manuals, including Hausa translations of Islamic guides on GBV prevention.
Speaking at the event, a member of the dRPC, Prof. Sani Garko said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to tackling GBV through cultural and faith-based approaches.
“Traditional and religious leaders play a critical role in shaping community perspectives on GBV,” he said.
Director of CICID, Bayero University Kano, Dr. Taufiq Abubakar, stressed that Islam prohibits molestation and harassment, advocating compassion as a foundation for a GBV-free society.
Imam of the National Mosque Abuja, Ilyas Usman emphasised that laws alone cannot solve GBV, urging family, school, and community involvement.
“There is a constant recommendation in the Qur’an to spread mercy and compassion. The family is the first protective fence,” Imam Usman said.
Ford Foundation Programme Officer, Oumar N’diaye, commended the dialogue, urging participants to take the message back to their communities.
Stakeholders, including FOMWAN, launched new guidelines on the role of Muslim leaders in protecting women in conflict-prone areas.
Organisers said the initiative strengthens collaboration between government, faith institutions, and civil society in addressing GBV.
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Hussaini Ibrahim 
