A faith-based women’s group has urged society to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy expressions of masculinity, warning that modern interpretations of patriarchy have become distorted.

Speaking at a single ladies conference on Saturday in Abuja, the convener, Mary Chinda, emphasised that, from a biblical perspective, God designed male leadership as an expression of responsibility, service, and protectionnot domination or control.

She noted that healthy patriarchy is reflected when a man is whole, emotionally grounded, and guided by godly principles.

According to her, abuse, manipulation, and dominance arise when masculinity becomes disconnected from spiritual values, leading to unhealthy patriarchy, stressing the need to restore God-centered masculinity that honors women, nurtures families, and builds stronger societies.

Chinda said the Single Ladies Conference initiative was aimed at strengthening families, institutions, and societies by empowering women long before they enter marriage.

She noted that the foundation of strong communities begins with equipping single women to understand their identity, worth, and purpose.

She said the conference focuses on helping women gain clarity and confidence before choosing a life partner.

She explained that women who are emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and socially empowered were more likely to choose partners who are healed, responsible, and aligned with their values leading to healthier, more stable, and purpose-driven families.

The organisers further highlighted growing concerns around gender-based violence, toxic relationships, emotional neglect, and increasing divorce rates, saying many of these issues can be traced to choices made without adequate knowledge, healing, or self-awareness.

“The conference aims to tackle these challenges at the root by providing women with the tools, wisdom, and decision-making frameworks needed to make informed relationship choices,” she said.

Also, an expert, Cecilia Agu, of the Fund of Bedroom Matters International, described an ideal marriage as one in which both partners are aligned in their values, thought processes, and commitment to God—the creator of the marriage institution.

According to her, such marriages are built on shared vision, mutual support, and the willingness to forgive.

She explained that in a healthy marriage, spouses cheer each other on, correct one another in love, and strive to be the best versions of themselves.

“I strongly believe there is a man for every woman and a woman for every man—so don’t rush into marriage with the wrong person. There is someone God has prepared for you,” she said.

Agu noted that many marital problems stem from people marrying the wrong partners or entering marriage without the necessary skills and emotional preparedness.

She emphasised that marriage requires intentional work.

A mental health advocate, Dr Ahola Opondu, addressed the growing concerns surrounding narcissistic abuse and trauma bonding, noting that these issues remain widely misunderstood despite increasing awareness.

She explained that many women and men continue to experience various forms of emotional and psychological abuse but often struggle to identify or navigate it.

“Understanding abuse is complex, but in the context of narcissism, which is a personality disorder, it becomes even more difficult. Many people encounter individuals with narcissistic tendencies without knowing how to handle them, and the impact can be deeply damaging. It literally rewires the mind,” she said.

The speaker noted that her session focused on practical steps for identifying narcissistic behavior and overcoming trauma bonding.

She emphasised the importance of self-awareness and personal empowerment, particularly for women.