Edo Women Urged To Build Grassroots Structures For Empowerment
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City
Women have been urged to establish grassroots structures to sustain empowerment programmes and drive effective governance.
Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo-Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the Wife of the Edo State Governor, stated this during the inauguration of the Planning Committee for International Women’s Day 2025 in Benin City.
She emphasized that beyond the celebration, women should develop concrete action plans for lasting impact.
“It is a time to discuss issues that affect us. We are the bedrock of the economy. Our focus should go beyond International Women’s Day,” she said.
Mrs. Anani urged women to reflect on their goals. “What are our action plans? What growth do we want to see? What impact do we want to make? We must plan both for March 8, 2025, and the years ahead.”
She stressed the importance of integrity, hard work, and expertise among women. “We must show the government that we are more than just election tools. We bring value to the table,” she added.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Chief Bisi Idaomi, outlined the Ministry’s priorities. These include fighting gender-based violence, supporting vulnerable groups, and boosting women’s economic participation.
She announced plans to introduce elderly homes, shelters for the mentally challenged, and support for people with disabilities. She also emphasized the need to expand the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
“We want economic empowerment. Women should engage in businesses, cooperatives, farming, large-scale industries, carpentry, and construction,” she said.
Chief Idaomi disclosed that 192 young women would be assigned to work across Edo State’s wards. A new data base will track women’s issues and ensure feedback to the government.
