By Rosemary Okoduwa
The Edo State Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in collaboration with the Office of the Edo State First Lady, has organized a one day women’s wellness, fitness and health awareness programme as part of activities to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration.
The event, which took place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City brought together women from all walks of life across the state. Participants engaged in physical exercise sessions, games, health talks and interactive wellness sessions designed to encourage women to adopt healthier lifestyles and prioritize their wellbeing.
Speaking during the programme, the Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, represented by the Special Adviser to the First Lady, Mrs. Betty Okonoboh, emphasized the importance of women paying closer attention to their health and overall wellbeing. She noted that the initiative reflects the commitment of the state government to encouraging women to embrace regular exercise, proper nutrition and routine medical check-ups as crucial steps toward living healthier and more productive lives.
In her welcome remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, described the gathering as a celebration of the strength, resilience and unity of Edo women.
She explained that the keep fit exercise was organized not only to commemorate International Women’s Day but also to encourage women in the state to make healthy living a regular part of their lives. According to her, the large turnout of energetic and inspiring women at the event reflects the unity and vibrant spirit of women across Edo State.
Mrs. Abdallah noted that while women play vital roles in their families, workplaces and communities, it is equally important for them to prioritize self care and personal wellbeing. She stressed that a healthy woman is a confident and productive woman whose wellbeing contributes directly to the strength and progress of society.
“When women are healthy and strong, our families, communities and the state become stronger. Staying active, keeping fit and prioritizing our wellbeing should be part of our daily lives. When we move our bodies, we energize our minds, uplift our spirits and build the strength needed to continue breaking barriers and achieving greatness,” she said.
The Commissioner also expressed delight at seeing women from diverse backgrounds come together in a spirit of celebration, solidarity and empowerment, noting that the essence of International Women’s Day is to promote unity, strength and progress among women.
She further encouraged women to continue supporting one another while inspiring the younger generation to live healthy and purposeful lives.
“As we exercise today, let us celebrate the resilience of Edo women, support one another and continue to inspire the next generation of girls to dream big and live healthy, fulfilling lives. Let today remind us that our health is our wealth, and strong women build strong societies,” she added.
As part of the programme, the Chief Medical Director of the Edo State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Anthonia I. Njoku, delivered a lecture titled “Women’s Wellness Across the Lifespan: Understanding Menopause and Healthy Ageing.” She explained that women experience different health challenges at various stages of life and emphasized the need for greater awareness and education to help them understand hormonal and physical changes associated with ageing.
Dr. Njoku stressed that proper knowledge and proactive health management are essential for women to maintain good health and experience healthier ageing.
Officials from the Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDOHIC) also engaged participants in an interactive session, providing detailed information on the Edo State health insurance scheme. They highlighted the available packages and benefits, encouraging women to enroll in order to access quality and affordable healthcare services.
Dignitaries present at the event includes Dr Kenneth Ihensekhien, Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Hon. Festus Ebea, Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Dr Amen Ogbemudia, DG, Directorate of Education Quality and Accountability, DEQA amongst others.
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