Stereotypes endangering development, killing men – Group

Certain stereotypes and myths about the role of men being sole leaders and providers in society are slowly endangering meaningful development and killing the male folk in Nigeria. The notion that only men are supposed to be the bread winners has put men under enormous pressures and contributed to the breakdown of moral since they […]

Certain stereotypes and myths about the role of men being sole leaders and providers in society are slowly endangering meaningful development and killing the male folk in Nigeria.
The notion that only men are supposed to be the bread winners has put men under enormous pressures and contributed to the breakdown of moral since they are geared to believe that they must do anything to provide for their families.
Patience Ekeoba of the Voice 4 Change, a DFID programme (Department for International Development) who spoke on a research report titled, “Being a man in Nigeria: Perceptions and Realities” noted that such pressure has contributed to the unequal opportunities experienced by the sexes.
She said: “Society sees the man as being tough, intelligent, the bread winner and natural leader ordained by God but view women as emotional, weak, dependent and vulnerable.”
Ekeoba said such stereotypes on the roles of men have had negative implications which are partly responsible for underdevelopment in the country because some women unfortunately do not see the need to strive to make anything of themselves.
“Have we ever wondered why we have more widows than widowers, it is simple, men are dying, the pressure is too much, and no one is talking about the issues men have to deal with. If a man is unhappy how do  you think he will think about making anyone happy, his wife or family.”
She added that men also need liberation, adding that when they are unable to find an outlet it affects their physical and mental health.
“From the study we observed that the levels of stress and depression of men was as high as 70%,” she said.
Caroline Enye, the team leader, said widely held ideas are powerful causes of gender inequality but added that a deliberate attempt by all Nigerians will be needed to change set norms.
She said that stereotypes needed to be let go while the media should celebrate positive male and female role models who demonstrated equitable behaviours.