The Edo State Government has approved a N1 billion soft loan scheme targeted at market women across the state, reinforcing its commitment to women’s empowerment and grassroots economic inclusion. The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugenia Abdallah, during a press briefing in Benin City, where she highlighted the ministry’s accomplishments under the state’s SHINE Agenda.
Abdallah explained that the initiative aims to uplift women operating at the grassroots—those closest to end consumers—by providing easy access to capital that will enable them to grow their businesses and enhance their standard of living. She revealed that over 54,000 women have been selected to benefit from entrepreneurship training, microfinance access, and capacity-building programs.
“The state government has approved N1 billion in soft loans to empower market women and expand their businesses,” Abdallah stated. “I commend Governor Monday Okpebholo for his steadfast commitment to women’s advancement and inclusive governance, with women now holding 35 percent of cabinet positions.”
She further noted that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has strengthened its social protection initiatives to support vulnerable individuals, including survivors of human trafficking, rape, and domestic violence. The ministry, she said, provides rehabilitation services, shelter, and care to help affected individuals and families regain stability and self-worth.
“We have restored hope and dignity to many who once felt abandoned,” Abdallah emphasized, reiterating the ministry’s zero-tolerance approach to gender-based violence.
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In addition, Abdallah showcased the ministry’s achievements in vocational and skills development, noting that the Uromi and Igarra Skills Acquisition Centres have been revitalized, producing more than 140 graduates in 2025. She also announced that the Evbuomodu Centre is currently undergoing an upgrade through a partnership with the Edo State Skills Development Agency, aimed at broadening vocational training opportunities for women and young people across the state.
The Commissioner expressed appreciation to Governor Okpebholo and the Coordinator of the Office of the Edo First Lady, Edesili Anani, for their unwavering collaboration and continued support toward advancing the ministry’s mission.
“We are creating a future where every woman and child in Edo State can live with dignity, make meaningful contributions, and achieve their full potential. Together, we will continue to make Edo shine even brighter,” she said.
Abdallah reaffirmed that the government’s substantial investment in women’s empowerment forms a key component of its broader strategy to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development across all sectors of the Edo economy.
