Edo State Government Revolutionizes Workers Welfare to Enhance Proficiency

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

In a bid to improve the welfare of workers and promote dedication in the workplace, the Edo State Government has officially opened a creche at the Edo State Secretariat, Sapele Road, Benin City.

The official opening was led by Mrs. Edesili Anani, Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, who expressed her elation at the initiative. She stated, “Today is the day the Lord has made, and we will rejoice and be glad in it. What we see here today is commendable. The Government’s efforts are continuous, and we are all excited.”

Mrs. Anani further noted, “My constituency includes women and children. A facility like this ensures that children are well cared for, allowing mothers to be more dedicated and effective at work. With functioning CCTV and on-site caregivers, Edo State workers can easily monitor their children, and this service is provided free of charge.”

She added, “This is a child-friendly environment where the quality of care profoundly impacts a child’s upbringing and learning. I specifically want to thank His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, for making this project a reality. We are extremely happy to have a brand-new, state-of-the-art creche facility for all government workers.”

The creche is well-equipped with a library, classroom, kitchen, reception area, sleeping quarters for children, and a CCTV system to ensure safety and proper monitoring of all activities.

Her Excellency, Mrs. Dame Patience Jonathan, renowned for her passion for mothers and children, initiated the policy that every government parastatal should have a creche to enable mothers to breastfeed their babies.

The Ministry of Women Affairs, ably led by Chief Bisi Idaomi, Permanent Secretary Mrs. Irene Ihensekhien, and their dedicated team, was commended for their outstanding efforts.

Representing the Honorable Commissioner, Permanent Secretary Mrs. Irene Ihensekhien expressed her gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, and the Office of the First Lady for ensuring the creche project became a reality. She stated that the facility meets the highest standards of care and learning and will be a place where dreams are nurtured, potential unlocked, and a brighter future secured for our children.

The establishment of the creche at the State Government Secretariat underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the human capital development of Edo State workers for improved proficiency.

Dignitaries at the event included the Wife of the SSG, Hajia Nimata Ikhilo, Hajia Maimuna Momodu, and Hajia Zuliat Bello Osagie, among others. The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony by Her Excellency, Mrs. Edesili Anani, followed by group photography.