By Dada AYOKHAI
The Edo State Government has taken another step towards promoting women’s empowerment and economic growth by distributing ₦100,000 cash grants to 166 vulnerable women across the state.
This initiative, part of the International Women’s Day celebrations, aims to boost their businesses and enhance their livelihoods
. The event was held at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, and was organized by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady and development partners.
Speaking at the event, His Excellency, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, who was represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. (Dr.) Kenneth Ihensekhien, said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls,” serves as a timely reminder that the progress of any society is closely tied to how well it protects the rights, dignity and opportunities of its women and girls.
Sen. Okpebholo highlighted key initiatives of his administration, including a one billion naira loan facility provided for market women to strengthen their businesses, improve household incomes and enhance economic resilience in communities.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to policies that promote women’s economic empowerment and wellbeing, emphasizing that empowering women is fundamental to achieving sustainable development and inclusive growth in the state.
In her remarks, the Coordinator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, who was represented by the Wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Nimata Umar Ikhilor described International Women’s Day as a significant global occasion for celebrating the achievements, resilience and contributions of women and girls while also reflecting on the progress made and the work that remains to be done.
Mrs Anani said the theme of this year’s celebration emphasizes the need to move beyond discussions and commitments to concrete actions that will protect the rights of women and girls, promote justice and expand opportunities for them to thrive.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, said the event was organized not only to celebrate women but also to recognize the strength, courage, resilience and limitless potential they bring to families, communities and the state.
Mrs Abdallah noted that International Women’s Day serves as a reminder that when women rise, societies prosper, stressing that the 2026 theme calls for stronger protection of women’s rights and collective action to advance gender equality.
She commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment through deliberate policies and programmes designed to create opportunities for women to grow, lead and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.
She also appreciated the Coordinator Office of Edo State First Lady, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani, for providing the platform that enabled the Ministry to organize what she described as an innovative women’s day celebration, which featured various activities.
Mrs. Abdallah further appreciated development partners and stakeholders, for their continued support towards protecting and empowering women and other vulnerable groups in the state. She also acknowledged the support of men who champion gender equality, describing them as important allies in advancing women’s rights.
Speaking at the event, the Former Deputy Speaker and Member representing Esan North East Constituency two, Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Mrs) Marie Edeko, emphasized the importance of increasing women’s participation in governance and decision-making processes, noting that inclusive leadership is essential for sustainable development.
The Chief of Mission, International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nigeria, Ms. Sharon Dimanche stressed the need to ensure that every w
