By Gloria Osemudiamhen
As part of its commitments to promoting unity in Edo State, the Office of the First Lady as coordinated by Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has emphasized the unity among people of the State as an indispensable contribution to development.
Mrs. Anani made the declaration when she played host to members of the Umagbae N’ Edo-Daughters of Benin Kingdom, who paid an official visit on the Office of the First Lady at the Government House in Benin City. She urged the guests to imbibe the spirit of unity and to speak with one voice.
In an admonition, Mrs. Anani said, “Thank you for coming, for felicitating with us in our first 100 days in office. Thank you for standing with us in this administration under Sen. Monday Okpebholo. The unity we speak about should not just be mere words; it should be practical. By God’s grace, under this administration, under my watch, as long as I am here, we will preach unity, one voice for women. Our voices should be heard in this State”.
While emphasizing the importance of establishing collaboration among women, Mrs. Anani highlighted the place of unity in women’s empowerment and emancipation, saying, “I’m glad to see a group of women coming together to unite with other women. I’m sure you are from all walks of life, and speaking with one voice. What’s more, I always ask, what is your agenda? What do you intend to achieve? It’s not just about saying we are here; what do you intend to achieve as a group?
“It’s essential that our women unite. It’s not just about you; it’s about uniting everybody. It’s a collective effort from one senatorial district to another. We are all one because our problems are the same; our agitation is one and the same, our goal should be one and the same”.
Mrs. Anani reiterated the State Government’s commitment to delivering on its campaign promises. According to her, “We have been able to deliver on some of our campaign promises, and by God’s grace, we will do much more”.
The President of the delegates, Mrs. Patience Asuen, appreciated Mrs. Anani’s dedication to supporting women in the State, saying, “We thank you for your resilience and unwavering commitment to the cause of women and the State at large. Your dedication to empowering women, promoting gender equality, is truly inspiring. We admire your leadership and vision in advancing important issues. Your unwavering dedication to serving the people of our dear State, and the tireless efforts to make a positive impact in our State, are truly commendable”.