Edo Hosts 25th National Council of Women Affairs as Commissioner Abdallah Calls for Stronger Systems to Protect Women and Children

By Rosemary Okoduwa

The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening social systems that support women, children, families, and vulnerable groups across Nigeria. She made the remarks on Monday while welcoming delegates to the 25th Regular National Council on Women Affairs and Child Development, holding in Benin City.

The event, attended by the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and representatives of development partners, civil society groups, and commissioners from the 36 states and the FCT, brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on policies affecting women and children nationwide.

In her welcome address, Abdallah described the hosting of the national council as a profound honour for Edo State, noting that the theme: “Strengthening Systems and Deepening Social Impact: Advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda for Women, Children, the Families and other Vulnerable Groups” reflects urgent national priorities.

“This conference is more than a gathering; it is a call to reflection, renewal and collaboration,” she said. “The future of Nigeria depends largely on how well we empower our women and nurture our children today.”

The commissioner highlighted key achievements recorded by the ministry in the past one year under the leadership of Governor Okpebholo and with strong support from the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani.

According to her, more than 5,000 women benefitted from empowerment and vocational programmes designed to promote sustainable livelihoods, while the state intensified implementation of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law to strengthen the fight against gender-based violence. Edo’s Sexual Assault Referral Centres, she said, have continued to expand access to justice, medical care, and counseling for survivors.

On child protection, Abdallah noted that collaboration with international partners has enhanced efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and reintegrate children vulnerable to abuse, trafficking, and exploitation. Edo State has also stepped up disability inclusion by providing empowerment grants, training, and advocacy for persons with disabilities.

“These achievements align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda,” she stated. “Our commitment is to ensure that every woman, every child, and every vulnerable person has the opportunity to thrive.”

Abdallah urged delegates to use the conference as a platform to deepen collaboration, share innovative ideas, and develop action-oriented strategies to address social challenges across the federation.

While welcoming participants to explore the rich culture and hospitality of Benin City, she expressed hope that the conference would mark a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts toward social transformation.

“Together, we can build a Nigeria where no woman is left behind, every child is protected, and every family has hope,” she added.