By Gloria Osemudiamhen
In commemoration of the year 2025 International Women’s Day, the Edo State Government, led by the Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo has launched a groundbreaking initiative of one billion Naira interest-free loan scheme to empower women in the State.
The gesture was made known by the Governor during an event organized by the Office of the First Lady in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, at the New Festival Hall, Government House in Benin City.
Sen. Okpebholo in his remarks, appreciated the exceptional qualities and substantial contributions women have made to the development of the State.
The Governorsaid, “I want to thank the ladies especially, since I assumed office as the Governor of Edo State, this is the first event that I see as colourful, that is the significance of women in our midst, you can actually do nothing without women as a man.”
In her address, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Anani emphasized the significance of the event and the importance of continued efforts towards achieving gender equality. She highlighted the crucial roles that women play in shaping society and stressed the need for their empowerment.
In her words, “Today, we gather to celebrate the achievements of women and to renew our call for transformative change. This day reminds us of the incredible progress made by women around the world, while urging us to accelerate our efforts towards gender parity.
“The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, ‘Accelerate Action,’ is not just a slogan. It is a call for urgent inclusion, decisive change, and collaborative efforts.
“Across every sector of society, we must come together to eliminate barriers that still deny thousands of women their fundamental human rights.
Systematic inequalities, violence against women and girls, and economic disparities continue to hold back our progress.”
Mrs. Anani while reiteratint the importance of collective action in achieving gender parity, said, “It is our duty to dismantle these obstacles as women. Achieving gender parity is essential for realizing true gender equality. This requires a steadfast commitment from our Government, community, businesses, and individuals.”
She reaffirmed the Edo State Government’s commitment to inclusivity of ensuring that all women residents in the State benefit from its initiatives, saying, “I am proud to recognize that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Distinguished Sen. Okpebholo has taken decisive steps to accelerate action, ensuring that no woman is left behind in our quest for equal opportunity and justice.
“As we mark this special day, we honour the trailblazers who paved the way for us. We acknowledge the progress we have made as women and continue to commit ourselves to the ongoing fight for gender equality and equity.”
Mrs. Anani celebrated the strength and resilience of women, encouraging them to stand united, refusing to be silenced or held back. Instead, she urged them to add values to their communities, strive for excellence, and support one another.
The event was attended by notable personalities including the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edeko Maria Omozele; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Joy Irenose Ihensekhien; politicians, representatives of various associations, amongst others.
The event offered a range of activities, including free medical services, social entertainment amongst others.
