By Oginni Joy Kehinde
The Edo State Government through its Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues has been presented with the National Gender Policy by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs at the Ministry’s premises in Benin City.
Responding on behalf of the State Government, the Edo State Commissioner for the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, Hon. Christabel Omon Ekwu, pledged the commitment of the State Government towards the implementation of the National Gender Policy in the State.
The Commissioner described the State Government led by Mr. Godwin Obaseki as a non-discriminatory government with the attribute of inclusiveness in its progressive agenda where women are not left behind, explaining that the State Government has always been interested in fighting against inequality, Gender-Based Violence and upskilling of women across the State.
Hon. Ekwu noted, “Women made up the highest population of the world, and as such they cannot be left behind. As a State, we will continue to do all it takes to make sure that the rights of women are respected in the society, without any form of sentiment.”
The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Babara Osobajo, appealed to the delegation of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs to always include Edo State in their developmental and empowerment programmes, which according to her, would empower more women and boost the economy of the State.
The Leader of the Delegation, Mr. Edo Akata, posited that the National Gender Policy (NGP) represents the minimum standards expected of the Nigerian Government to meet its mandate for gender equality, good governance, accountability, and being socially responsive to the needs of its vulnerable groups.
Mr. Akata added that with the implementation of the National Gender Policy in Nigeria, gender-based violence will be reduced to its barest minimum. He applauded the Obaseki-led administration for its top-notch infrastructural development, especially the State Secretariat Buildings, which he described as world class edifices.
