Coordinator Office Of The First Lady Lauds Governor Monday Okpebholo on One Year of Development Milestones

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

The Coordinator Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for the remarkable developmental strides recorded in his first year in office.

She made this known at the colloquium titled “One Year in Office, Governor Monday Okpebholo: Issues and Perspectives” held at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, Airport Road, Benin City.

Mrs. Anani highlighted a number of initiatives that have strengthened women’s empowerment, improved healthcare services, and promoted social justice across Edo State.

According to her, the SHINE Agenda has created new opportunities for the Office of the First Lady to act as a catalyst for change, especially through targeted programmes in agriculture, entrepreneurship, health screenings, and protection against gender-based violence. She noted that these efforts have led to tangible improvements in the lives of Edo people.

The First Lady designate outlined key accomplishments such as the distribution of farm tools, poultry chicks, and improved seedlings to women and youth to enhance agricultural productivity. She also mentioned the free cervical and breast cancer screening campaign carried out in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Edo Specialist Hospital.

In addition, Mr Anani supported survivors of domestic and gender-based violence, including the ₦5 million relief granted to Ms. Uyi Tina after her home was set ablaze in an arson attack by her estranged husband.

The Coordinator further explained that the Office has intervened in cases of human trafficking and female genital mutilation, with the state government pledging rehabilitation and legal action under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law.

She also highlighted the government’s support for vulnerable groups and persons living with disabilities, citing the payment of a ₦1.4 million medical bill for a baby whose parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sunday, could not afford treatment. This, she said, demonstrates the administration’s deep commitment to protecting the most vulnerable children and families.

She went on to commend Governor Okpebholo for fostering an enabling environment for youth innovation. She referenced the recent national science award won by students of Usugbonu Technical College for developing a waste-management sensor, describing it as a testament to the governor’s dedication to empowering young people.

Mrs. Anani concluded by stating that the governor’s leadership has created a platform where women, youth, and vulnerable groups can thrive. She expressed optimism about building on the achievements recorded in the first year.

Governor Okpebholo, who was present at the event, expressed his gratitude to the Office of the First Lady for its dedicated and compassionate work. He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to continue delivering on the SHINE Agenda and meeting the expectations of the people of Edo State.

As Edo State moves into the second year of the Okpebholo administration, officials reiterated that the government remains focused on expanding economic opportunities, strengthening healthcare services, and reinforcing the rule of law to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all citizens.