By Maryjane Austine
Edo Govt Approves N1bn Soft Loans for Market Women — Commissioner
The Edo State Government has approved ₦1 billion in soft loans to empower market women, strengthen small businesses, and improve livelihoods across the state.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugenia Abdallah, disclosed this on Saturday during a press conference in Benin City, where she outlined key achievements of the government under its SHINE Agenda.
According to Abdallah, the initiative is aimed at supporting women at the grassroots, who play a crucial role in the local economy as direct links between producers and consumers.
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“The state government has approved ₦1 billion in soft loans for market women to boost their businesses,” Abdallah announced. “I must commend Governor Monday Okpebholo for his unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusive governance, as 35 per cent of cabinet positions are currently occupied by women.”
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She added that a total of 54,000 women have been targeted for entrepreneurial training, microfinance access, and skills development, as part of the governor’s broader efforts to enhance women’s economic participation
“This administration has shown that empowering women is not just a promise but a lived reality,” Abdallah said.
The commissioner also noted that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has intensified social protection programmes for vulnerable groups across the state, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and social welfare.
