By Ogbebor Tony Ikponmwosa
In continuation of the Edo State Government’s resolve to fight illegal migration and gender-based violence amongst women in the State, the Godwin Obaseki administration has deepened its partnership with the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Spanish Football League, La Liga.
Speaking on the rationale for the partnership during the Nigerian Women’s Football League (NWFL) “Show Your Other Side Tournament” at the Ultra Modern Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, said the Government has made concrete efforts in ensuring women’s participation in sports and governance.
Also speaking, Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, said the issue of illegal migration has become a thing of the past in Edo while reassuring the people that sustainable efforts have been made to promote the girl child and curb the menace of gender-based violence in the State.
The Chairman of Nigerian Women’s Football League, Mrs. Aisha Folade, who spoke at the event, commended Edo State Government for its achievements in sports. She said, “Edo State Government has created an enabling environment for sports and women to thrive.”
The representative of International Organization for Migration (IOM) Ms. Cyprine Cheptenkeny, said the event was an opportunity to use football and sports to promote gender equality, safe migration and promote women in sports and society. She thanked the Edo State Government for its cooperation and hospitality.
The high point of the event was the novelty match between the Edo Queens and the NWFL team which featured the Deputy Governor playing for both sides.
Some Dignitaries present at the event were Mutiu Adepoju, Anair Lamba Alvarez (both La Liga ambassadors); Yusuf Ali Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission; Sabina Chikere, Permanent Secretary, Edo State Sports Council; and Engr. Adeleke, a Sports investor.
Some of the participants and beneficiaries of the event commended the Edo State Government for their accomplishments in sports and women development.
