The Edo State Government has approved ₦1 billion in soft loans for market women across the state to strengthen their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugenia Abdallah, during a press conference held on Saturday in Benin City.
Abdallah said the initiative aligns with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, which prioritises inclusive growth and women’s economic empowerment at the grassroots.
According to her, over 54,000 women have been targeted for entrepreneurial training, microfinance access, and skills development across the state.
“The state government has approved ₦1 billion in soft loans for market women to boost their businesses,” Abdallah stated. “Governor Monday Okpebholo has shown unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusive governance, with women currently occupying 35 per cent of cabinet positions.”
She noted that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has intensified social protection programmes for vulnerable groups, including trafficked women, rape survivors, and victims of domestic violence.
Abdallah added that the ministry continues to provide rehabilitation, shelter, and child protection services for affected women and their families.
“We have given hope and dignity to those who thought all was lost,” she said, reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance policy for gender-based violence.
Highlighting progress in skills development, the commissioner revealed that the Uromi and Igarra Skills Acquisition Centres have been revitalised, producing over 140 graduates in 2025, while the Evbuomodu Centre is currently being upgraded in partnership with the Edo State Skills Development Agency.
Abdallah commended Governor Okpebholo and Edesili Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the Edo First Lady, for their strong support and collaboration in advancing women’s development across the state.
“We are building a future where every woman and child in Edo State can live with dignity, contribute meaningfully, and realise their full potential,” she said. “Together, we will continue to make Edo shine brighter.”
The commissioner reiterated that the government’s investments in women’s empowerment form part of a strategic plan for inclusive growth and sustainable development across all sectors of the Edo economy.
