Office of the First Lady, Ministry of Women Affairs Social Development Foster Sustainable Growth, Empowers Edo Women

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

Benin City, Edo State

21 February, 2025

In a bid to strengthen local communities through effective governance and empowerment, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, has called for the establishment of robust grassroots structures while speaking at the inauguration of the planning committee for International Women’s Day, held at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

Mrs. Anani stressed that empowerment initiatives must deliver tangible results at the community level.

She highlighted the importance of creating actionable plans for the future, beyond the celebrations of International Women’s Day. “This is a time for women to come together and discuss the issues that affect us,” she stated. “We are the bedrock of the economy, and it is essential to focus on what we intend to achieve—both in the short term and in the long term”.

Mrs Anani underscored the critical role women play in societal growth, emphasizing qualities such as integrity, honor, hard work, and expertise. “We are women of substance—not merely decorative figures used during elections. We are bringing real value to the table,” She further stressed that unity among women is crucial, noting that progress is hindered when women do not stand together in solidarity.

The event also featured remarks from Chief Bisi Idaomi, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development. Chief Idaomi outlined the Ministry’s focus on combating gender-based violence and supporting vulnerable groups, including the elderly, victimized individuals, abandoned children, and people with disabilities.

She announced plans for new elderly homes, shelters for individuals with mental health challenges, and enhanced support services for people with disabilities and albinos.

Additionally, Chief Idaomi emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to increasing the State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by promoting women’s empowerment in various economic sectors. “We want to see women thriving in business, cooperatives, large-scale farming, industrial facilities, carpentry, and construction,” she declared. She also highlighted ambitious plans such as establishing a cassava plant in Etsako West to produce ethanol and reviving an abandoned juice factory in Ehor.

In a collaborative effort to address local needs, the Ministry plans to assign 192 young women to work across 192 wards in Edo State. This initiative, in coordination with directors and permanent secretaries, aims to develop a comprehensive database to track issues affecting women, ensuring that regular updates are provided to Governor Monday Okpebholo.

The emphasis on grassroots development and capacity building reflects a strategic move by the Office of the First Lady and the Ministry to foster sustainable growth and empower women across Edo State.