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Edo State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, Ground Floor Block C, Secretariat Building, Sapele Road, Benin City, Bénin (2026)

18/10/2026

A message from the Honourable Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, Edo State, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah

16/10/2026

Edo Women Affairs Ministry, BraveHeart Initiative Convene Stakeholders to Strengthen SGBV Prevention

The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in partnership with BraveHeart Initiative for Youth and Women and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, has convened stakeholders to strengthen policy implementation and improve prevention and response to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) across the state.

The one-day stakeholders’ consultation, held at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), Benin City, brought together representatives of government ministries, security agencies, the health and justice sectors, civil society organisations, and other relevant stakeholders to identify implementation gaps and develop practical strategies for protecting survivors and improving access to justice.

Speaking at the meeting, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady and Chairperson, Edo State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo-Anani, called for stronger stakeholder collaboration, effective enforcement of existing laws, and the establishment of additional Sexual Assault Referral Centres to improve access to support services.

Mrs. Anani stressed that addressing SGBV requires collective commitment to prevention, protection, justice and compassionate care for survivors. She highlighted ongoing efforts to introduce GBV clubs in schools to educate children on personal safety, boundaries and respect, while urging parents, traditional rulers and religious leaders to challenge harmful practices and social norms that encourage violence.

She noted that existing referral centres in Benin City and Uromi provide support for survivors, while plans are underway to establish another centre in Edo North. She also commended RoLAC for supporting the ongoing review of the Edo State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law, 2021.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, said the consultation was designed to assess existing interventions, identify gaps and generate recommendations to strengthen the implementation of policies and laws against SGBV.

Hon. Abdallah emphasised the need for coordinated action among government institutions, law enforcement agencies, health professionals, the justice sector and community leaders, stressing that policies must translate into practical protection and access to justice across the state's 18 local government areas. She commended BraveHeart Initiative and RoLAC for their partnership in advancing the fight against gender-based violence.

In their separate contributions, representatives of the Commissioners for Justice and Health, Mrs. Omage Dimowo and Dr. Paul Eighemwenrio, respectively, underscored the importance of effective law enforcement, prompt prosecution, adequate medical care, psychosocial support and confidential, survivor-centred services.

The Justice Ministry representative highlighted the development of prosecutorial guidelines for SGBV cases to promote professionalism and consistency, while the Health Ministry representative stressed the need for adequate funding, capacity building and improved referral systems. The representative of the Commissioner of Police, DCP Musa Bulus, reaffirmed the Police Command's commitment to collaborating with relevant institutions to strengthen enforcement and ensure accountability.

Also speaking, the Executive Director of BraveHeart Initiative for Youth and Women, Chief Priscilla Usiobaifo, described the consultation as a technical strategy session, urging stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the provisions of the VAPP Law and contribute practical recommendations to improve its implementation.

In a goodwill message, the RoLAC State Coordinator, Uche Nwokedi, reaffirmed the importance of sustained collaboration among stakeholders in strengthening the state's response to SGBV. Imonitie Omokhodion of RoLAC subsequently presented an overview of the Edo State VAPP Law, 2021, and the ongoing review process, highlighting the importance of identifying gaps and strengthening the legal framework for more effective prevention, protection and access to justice.

The meeting ended with stakeholders making technical contributions towards strengthening institutional coordination, closing implementation gaps and improving survivor-centred prevention, protection and access to justice across Edo State.

Daisy Osunde
Director of Media
MWASD

15/10/2026

Eugenia Abdallah Hails Oluremi Tinubu’s Visit to Edo, Commends Governor Okpebholo

The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, has commended the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her visit to Edo State and her commitment to advancing women's empowerment and social development.

Hon. Abdallah gave the commendation during the First Lady's visit to Benin City on Thursday, October 15, 2026, where she joined Governor Monday Okpebholo and other dignitaries to receive Senator Tinubu and participate in the day's engagements.

The visit featured the empowerment of 5,000 women across Edo State, the commissioning of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses acquired by the state government, and a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Oba of Benin.

The Commissioner described the empowerment initiative as a significant step towards improving the economic well-being of women, strengthening families and creating opportunities for greater financial independence. She noted that Senator Tinubu's continued support for women and vulnerable groups reflected a commitment to inclusive development.

Hon. Abdallah also applauded Governor Okpebholo for his purposeful leadership and commitment to the development of Edo State, noting that the acquisition of 100 CNG buses demonstrated his administration's resolve to improve public transportation while promoting cleaner energy alternatives.

She observed that the First Lady's visit further strengthened the relationship between the Federal Government and Edo State, particularly in advancing programmes that promote women's economic empowerment and improve the welfare of citizens.

The Commissioner expressed optimism that the women's empowerment initiative would make a meaningful difference in the lives of beneficiaries and contribute to the socio-economic development of the state.

Daisy Osunde
Director of Media
MWASD

14/10/2026

With hearts full of joy and gratitude, Edo State warmly welcomes Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on Thursday, 15th October 2026, for the empowerment of 5,000 Edo women.

Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, appreciates the First Lady’s enduring impact on women, the girl child and vulnerable groups.

Let us come together to celebrate this special visit and champion a brighter, more empowered future for Edo women.

Your Excellency, welcome home to the Heartbeat of the Nation!

13/10/2026

Edo Women Affairs Commissioner Advocates Rehabilitation, Psychosocial Support for Young Offenders

The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, has advocated a more rehabilitative and child-sensitive approach to handling young offenders, emphasizing the need for psychosocial support, family reintegration, and skills acquisition to promote their reformation and successful reintegration into society.

Hon. Abdallah made the call during a follow-up visit to the Nigerian Correctional Service, Edo State Command, in Benin City, following the Service’s earlier visit to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. The visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between both institutions on the protection of children and other vulnerable groups.

The Commissioner expressed concern over the handling of minors and young offenders, noting that institutionalization without adequate psychological support, proper segregation, and rehabilitation could expose young persons to negative influences and undermine their chances of reformation.

She proposed a more holistic approach that would prioritise family-based care, parental responsibility, counselling, and psychosocial interventions for eligible young offenders, alongside access to specialised rehabilitation and skills acquisition programmes.

According to her, young offenders should be given opportunities to acquire practical skills and receive the necessary support to become productive members of society, including the provision of start-up assistance where appropriate.

Hon. Abdallah stressed that the Ministry was committed to working with the Correctional Service to develop sustainable interventions that would advance the welfare of women, children, persons with disabilities, and older persons across Edo State.

She noted that effective rehabilitation and social protection require coordinated efforts among government institutions and other relevant stakeholders, rather than isolated interventions.

Responding, the Controller of Corrections, Edo State Command, Orhunmwonkpawan Julius Osemwegie, acknowledged the importance of inter-agency collaboration, stating that no single institution could independently address the complex challenges associated with child development, security, and offender rehabilitation.

Drawing from his experience, including his PhD internship at the Ugbekun Child Correctional Centre, the Controller highlighted the importance of adhering to established legal and institutional procedures in the handling of children in conflict with the law.

He also recalled previous initiatives at the facility, including educational programmes, lectures on drug abuse delivered by university academics, and extracurricular activities designed to support the development and reformation of young inmates.

The Controller further disclosed that correctional facilities have continued to provide vocational training opportunities, including tailoring, sewing, and soap production, to equip inmates with practical skills for life after custody.

He also acknowledged the role of government investment in infrastructure, alongside contributions from volunteers and educational stakeholders, in supporting rehabilitation efforts within the correctional system.

The discussions underscored the need to strengthen existing initiatives through closer cooperation between the Ministry and the Nigerian Correctional Service, particularly in child protection, rehabilitation, family reintegration, and vocational empowerment.

Daisy Osunde
Director of Media
MWASD

13/10/2026

Edo Women Affairs Commissioner Seeks Stronger Media Partnership to Deepen Grassroots Awareness

The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, has called for stronger collaboration between the Ministry and the media to deepen public awareness of government policies, promote family welfare, and strengthen the protection of women and children across the state.

Hon. Abdallah made the call while receiving a delegation from Super 88.1 FM, Benin City, led by its Head of Programmes, Joyce Chuks, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry

The Commissioner welcomed the proposed partnership, expressing the Ministry’s readiness to work with the radio station to amplify its programmes, publicise government interventions, and educate residents on issues affecting women, children, and other vulnerable groups.

According to her, women often bear significant responsibilities in caring for the entire household, making it necessary for public enlightenment programmes to engage men as active partners in promoting family welfare, responsible parenting, and the protection of children.

The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of grassroots engagement, observing that ordinary citizens are increasingly aware of social issues and government activities and are eager to have their concerns heard.

Drawing from her interactions with commuters on buses and taxis, she noted that public enlightenment must go beyond formal settings to reach people in their everyday environments.

On the protection of women and children, Hon. Abdallah identified Female Ge***al Mutilation (FGM) as a continuing concern, particularly in parts of northern Edo State, where deeply rooted cultural practices present challenges to eradication efforts.

She stressed the need for sustained advocacy, community engagement, and effective implementation of legal protections to discourage harmful practices and safeguard the rights of women and girls.

The Commissioner further commended the media for its vital role in bridging information gaps, educating the public on relevant laws, and promoting awareness of maternal and child health, gender-based violence, and other social concerns.

She expressed optimism that the proposed collaboration with Super FM would provide a more effective channel for connecting the Ministry with communities and ensuring that residents are better informed about available services, government interventions, and opportunities for support.

Earlier, the Head of Programmes at Super 88.1 FM, Joyce Chuks, described the station as a family-oriented broadcaster committed to promoting the welfare of women, children, and other vulnerable members of society.

She highlighted two of the station’s flagship programmes: Mother and Child and Today’s Woman.

According to her, "Mother and Child" focuses on maternal and child health while "Today’s Woman" addresses the evolving challenges facing women, including gender-based violence, women's rights, child sexual abuse, and inheritance laws.

Chuks commended the Ministry for its interventions in women’s empowerment and social protection, citing digital business training, mini-trade fairs, and grant support provided to more than 170 women between October and August.

The Super FM representative expressed the station’s interest in serving as a media partner to the Ministry, offering its platforms to publicise programmes, provide expert perspectives, and promote sustained public education on issues affecting women, children, and families.

The proposed partnership is expected to strengthen information sharing, expand the reach of the Ministry’s advocacy campaigns, and encourage greater public participation in efforts to promote the welfare and protection of women and children in Edo State.

Daisy Osunde
Director of Media
MWASD

12/10/2026

EUGENIA ABDALLAH LEADS GBV MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE ON CONDOLENCE VISIT TO EDO FIRST LADY

The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, has led members of the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Management Committee on a condolence visit to the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, following the demise of her mother.

During the visit, Hon. Abdallah conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the committee to Mrs. Anani and her family, expressing sympathy and solidarity with them during this difficult period.

The Commissioner acknowledged the invaluable role of mothers in nurturing families, instilling values and laying the foundation for future generations. She noted that the passing of a mother leaves a profound void, while the love, sacrifices, wisdom and enduring legacy she leaves behind continue to live on in the lives of her children and loved ones.

Hon. Abdallah reaffirmed the committee’s support for Mrs. Anani, who chairs the GBV Management Committee, and prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased's soul, as well as divine strength and comfort for the bereaved family.

In her response, Mrs. Anani expressed appreciation to Hon. Abdallah and other members of the committee for the visit, describing their gesture as a demonstration of love, concern and solidarity at a difficult time.

The visit underscored the spirit of unity, compassion and mutual support among members of the Gender-Based Violence Management Committee.

At the end of the visit, Hon. Abdallah signed the condolence register in honour of the deceased.

Daisy Osunde
Director of Media
MWASD

12/10/2026

LOVE, LAUGHTER AND CELEBRATION AS EDO WOMEN AFFAIRS MINISTRY HONOURS PERMANENT SECRETARY, JOY IHENSEKHIEN

It was a memorable moment of love, joy and appreciation as directors and staff of the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development gathered to celebrate the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Joy Ihensekhien, whose birthday was on October 10.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement as staff sang, danced and took turns to offer heartfelt goodwill messages, applauding the Permanent Secretary’s leadership, dedication and cordial relationship with members of staff. The celebration also featured special prayers for God’s continued guidance, good health, wisdom and greater accomplishments in her life and service to the state.

A Permanent Secretary in the Edo State Civil Service, Mrs Ayegbeni Balogun, was also present at the celebration and delivered a goodwill message in honour of Mrs Ihensekhien.

In a special moment, Mr Edmund Isemede of the Accounts Department, who shares the same birthday with the Permanent Secretary, was also celebrated by his colleagues.

Responding with visible surprise and gratitude, Mrs Ihensekhien expressed appreciation to the staff for the thoughtful gesture and overwhelming show of love. She also appreciated the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, for fostering a cordial and productive working relationship within the Ministry.

The Permanent Secretary commended the staff for their unity, kindness and support, describing the celebration as a heartwarming demonstration of love and togetherness.

Beyond the birthday celebration, the gathering reflected the strong bond, mutual respect and team spirit that continue to strengthen the Ministry in its commitment to promoting the welfare of women, children and vulnerable persons across Edo State.

Happy Birthday once again to Mrs Joy Ihensekhien and Mr Edmund Isemede! May their new year be filled with renewed strength, abundant blessings, good health and greater achievements.

Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Celebrating leadership, strengthening bonds and building a better future.

12/10/2026

A New Week, A Renewed Commitment! ✨

Let us continue to protect the rights, dignity, and future of every girl child.

11/10/2026

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE GIRL CHILD – 11TH OCTOBER

Every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, dream, and achieve her full potential. On this International Day of the Girl Child, the Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, reaffirms its commitment to ending child marriage, protecting girls' rights, and investing in their education, health, safety, and future.

Together, let us protect our girls today and empower the women of tomorrow. Every girl deserves a future, not an early marriage!

Edo State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues

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