Edo State Govt Commits N1b Interest-Free Loan In Commemoration Of International Women’s Day
Tracy Ohovwore, Benin city
In commemoration of the 2025 International Women’s Day, the Edo state government, under the leadership of Senator Monday Okpebholo, has launched a progressive initiative of a one billion naira interest-free loan scheme to empower women in Edo state.
The governor made this groundbreaking gesture known during an event organised by the office of the First Lady in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development at the New Festival Hall, Government House in Benin City.
In his remark, the governor appreciated the indispensable contributions and efforts that women make to the development of the state.
“I want to thank the ladies especially, since I assumed office as the Governor of Edo State, this is the first event that I see as colorful, that is the significance of women in our midst, you can do nothing without women as a man,” Okpebholo said
The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Anani, stressed the relevance of the event to strengthening women’s empowerment and fostering gender equality while highlighting the crucial roles that women play in society.
She said, “Today, we gather to celebrate women’s achievements and renew our call for transformative change. This day reminds us of the incredible progress made by women around the world while urging us to accelerate our efforts towards gender parity.
“The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, ‘Accelerate Action,’ is not just a slogan. It is a call for urgent inclusion, decisive change, and collaborative efforts.
“Across every sector of society, we must come together to eliminate barriers that still deny thousands of women their fundamental human rights.
Systematic inequalities, violence against women and girls, and economic disparities continue to hold back our progress.”
While addressing the issue of gender disparity, Mrs. Anani said, “It is our duty as women to dismantle these obstacles. Achieving gender parity is essential for realising true gender equality. This requires a steadfast commitment from our Government, community, businesses, and individuals.”
She further reiterated the Edo state government’s commitment to enabling inclusivity of all women residents in the state to benefit from the initiative.
“I am proud to recognize that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Distinguished Sen. Okpebholo has taken decisive steps to accelerate action, ensuring that no woman is left behind in our quest for equal opportunity and justice.
“As we mark this special day, we honour the trailblazers who paved the way for us. We acknowledge the progress we have made as women and continue to commit ourselves to the ongoing fight for gender equality and equity.” She added.
Mrs. Anani celebrated women’s strength and resilience, encouraging them to stand united and refuse to be silenced or held back. Instead, she urged them to add value to their communities, strive for excellence, and support one another.
The event was attended by notable personalities, including the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edeko Maria Omozele, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Joy Irenose Ihensekhien, politicians, and representatives of various associations. Other activities of the event included free medical services, social entertainment amongst others.
