By DADA. AYOKHAI
The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in partnership with the Office of the First Lady, has launched a three-day mini trade fair to celebrate the 2026 International Women’s Day.
The event, held at the Secretariat Complex, Sapele Road, aims to unite and empower women across the state. Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, represented by the Director-General of the Edo State Directorate of Education, Quality and Accountability (DEQA), Dr. Amen Ogbemudia, said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to inclusiveness and women’s economic advancement.
”The fair is structured to accommodate women from all walks of life, including market women, professionals, and artisans,” Anani said, emphasizing that every woman has a place in society.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development,Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, described the fair as a showcase of women’s creativity, resilience, and economic strength, noting that empowering women drives community development .
Mrs Abdallah explained that the three-day event serves as a platform for women entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses and expand their economic opportunities. “This 3-day event is our Ministry’s way of saying, we see your hard work, and we are providing the platform for you to scale up. To our exhibitors, your products represent the innovation we need to drive our economy forward. I encourage every visitor to shop with intention and support these businesses”, she stated
The Commissioner also noted that the fair promotes unity and collaboration among women, creating a sense of shared purpose and collective progress.
She added that goods and services are offered at subsidized rates, enabling residents to purchase quality products at affordable prices while directly supporting local entrepreneurs.
A major highlight of the opening ceremony was the tour of exhibition stands by the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady and the Commissioner, alongside other dignitaries. They interacted with vendors, commended the quality and creativity of the products on display, and demonstrated their support by purchasing items from the exhibitors.
