Edo Governor Okpebholo Reaffirms Support for Women's Empowerment

• The Governor, Okpebholo, said his administration is committed to the empowerment of women, as well as social inclusion
• He noted that Edo State has a strong history of women’s leadership

Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Governor of Edo State, has reiterated his administration's commitment to promoting women's empowerment, social inclusion, and gender-aware governance.

Speaking at the opening of the 25th National Council on Women Affairs and Child Development (NCWACD) in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo, who was accompanied by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, stated that the event demonstrates the State's commitment to advancing the interests of women and children.

He noted that there are numerous historical examples of women from Edo contributing to leadership and nation-building including, specifically, Queen Idia, Emotan, and the Professor Grace Alele-Williams.

Among other recent topics, he observes that there have even been further contributions from women from Edo considering the appointment of Professor Idia Ize-Iyamu to Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, the first female appointee to this position.

Governor Monday stated that this year's theme for the Council is related to the Federal Government's Renewed Hope Agenda, with a focus on systems strengthening, social impact, and support to women and children, families, and marginalized groups.

He highlighted several specific initiatives from the State implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which includes, no interest loans for female traders, increase in women's representation in leadership position, and promises to help women and girl children access education and health care.

He continued to promise that the state will partner with federal Ministry of Women's Affairs and development partners to build inclusion-oriented structures.

He urged all women and youth to take advantage of these emerging opportunities. He clearly stated that one way or another, their creativity and determination would be at the forefront of what everyone will push to the future in Edo State.