The Edo State Government has achieved a significant milestone in women empowerment, successfully supporting the economic advancement of over 54,000 women across the state through comprehensive training programs and financial inclusion initiatives.
Comprehensive Empowerment Strategy
State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, revealed these impressive figures during a recent media briefing about her ministry's activities over the past year. The empowerment programs focused on three key areas: entrepreneurial training, access to microfinance, and skills development initiatives designed to create sustainable livelihoods for women.
According to Mrs. Abdallah, the ministry's skills acquisition programs have equipped women with highly relevant technical skills to improve their economic prospects. Notably, the training included specialized instruction in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle conversion and electric vehicle maintenance, positioning women to benefit from emerging opportunities in the green energy sector.
Strategic Partnerships for Greater Impact
The ministry has actively pursued collaborations with both local and international organizations to enhance the effectiveness of women empowerment programs. Key partnerships include the German International Cooperation (GIZ) and the Society for the Empowerment of Young Persons (SEYP), bringing additional expertise and resources to the initiatives.
Furthermore, the ministry has strengthened its collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment (FMITI) to expand programs that promote women's socio-economic development across Edo State. These strategic alliances have been crucial in scaling the impact of empowerment efforts.
Broader Social Protection Initiatives
Beyond economic empowerment, the ministry has intensified advocacy efforts against human trafficking, raising awareness about its dangers and consequences while collaborating with relevant agencies to combat this menace. The commissioner emphasized that the government has prioritized programs that empower the girl child, including education and skills development initiatives.
To achieve this aim, the ministry has collaborated with young advocates of good causes and implemented active school programs to promote positive values and behaviors among young people. These initiatives aim to equip the next generation with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to drive positive change in Edo State and Nigerian society at large.
The ministry has also provided comprehensive support to rape victims, including medical, emotional, and psychological care. Mrs. Abdallah confirmed that her ministry has worked with law enforcement agencies to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice while advocating for stricter penalties for those convicted of rape.
Government Commitment to Inclusive Development
Earlier, while receiving members of the Afemai Daughters and Wives Association (ADAWA) during a courtesy visit to the ministry in Benin City, Mrs. Abdallah reiterated the government's commitment to empowerment, inclusion, and sustainable development, with particular attention to women and vulnerable groups.
She emphasized that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo continues to prioritize inclusive governance and equal opportunities, ensuring that no group, community, or individual is excluded from the state's social welfare and empowerment programs.
"The government remains focused on creating opportunities for all, especially women and the vulnerable. We aim to ensure that no one is left behind in Edo State's development efforts," Mrs. Abdallah stated.
The commissioner commended ADAWA for its unity and ongoing support, encouraging members to maintain their collaborative efforts toward community development. She assured the association that the ministry is open to partnerships with organizations and individuals committed to building an inclusive and progressive Edo State.
In her remarks, the President of ADAWA, Hajiya Zuliat Bello-Osagie, congratulated Mrs. Abdallah on her appointment, describing it as well-deserved. She praised the commissioner's dedication to advancing women's causes and noted that her leadership continues to inspire many across the state.
The Vice President of ADAWA and former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Maimuna Momodu, also commended the ministry's work in protecting vulnerable citizens and promoting empowerment for women and youth. She expressed confidence in Mrs. Abdallah's vision and ability to expand existing initiatives, stating that her leadership would create more opportunities for women's participation in the state's development.
