In a major step toward women’s economic empowerment, the Edo State Government has approved ₦1 billion in soft loans for market women across the state, aiming to strengthen small-scale businesses and promote inclusive economic growth.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugenia Abdallah, during a press briefing in Benin City on Saturday.
She said the initiative is part of the government’s SHINE Agenda, which focuses on social welfare, inclusivity, and economic empowerment for women and vulnerable groups.
Abdallah noted that the ₦1bn soft loan initiative is designed to assist thousands of market women at the grassroots, who play a crucial role in local trade and food distribution.
According to her, women in rural and semi-urban areas form the backbone of Edo’s informal economy, yet many struggle to access credit facilities to grow their businesses.
Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Edo Soft Loans for Market Women
She explained that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration remains committed to improving women’s livelihoods and ensuring that economic growth translates to better opportunities for all.
“The state government has approved ₦1 billion in soft loans for market women to boost their businesses,” Abdallah said.
“This move reflects Governor Okpebholo’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusive governance.
Currently, 35 percent of cabinet positions in Edo are held by women, which is a clear demonstration of gender balance in leadership.”
Abdallah added that more than 54,000 women have been targeted for entrepreneurial training, access to microfinance, and skills development.
The programme, she said, goes beyond financial aid by equipping beneficiaries with business management and digital literacy skills to ensure sustainability.
“This administration has shown that empowering women is not just a promise but a lived reality,” she emphasized.
Strengthening Social Protection and Economic Resilience
Speaking further, Abdallah said the Ministry of Women Affairs has expanded its social protection programmes to reach vulnerable groups and survivors of violence.
She highlighted that the ministry continues to provide rehabilitation, shelter, and counselling services for trafficked women, rape victims, and survivors of domestic abuse.
According to her, these initiatives ensure that women and children in crisis situations are not only protected but also reintegrated into society with dignity.
“We have given hope and dignity to those who thought all was lost,” Abdallah said.
“The ministry maintains zero tolerance for gender-based violence and remains committed to supporting survivors with long-term empowerment solutions.”
The commissioner also revealed that the Uromi and Igarra Skills Acquisition Centres have been revitalised, producing over 140 graduates in 2025 alone.
She added that the Evbuomodu Centre is undergoing a major upgrade in partnership with the Edo State Skills Development Agency to expand vocational training opportunities for women and youth.
Edo Government’s Commitment to Inclusive Growth
Abdallah praised Governor Okpebholo and the Office of the Edo First Lady, coordinated by Edesili Anani, for their continued partnership in implementing programmes that uplift women and children.
She noted that the Edo soft loans for market women programme aligns with the state government’s broader objective of driving economic inclusion through access to finance and entrepreneurship support.
“We are building a future where every woman and child in Edo State can live with dignity, contribute meaningfully, and realise their full potential,” Abdallah stated.
“Together, we will continue to make Edo shine brighter.”
The commissioner emphasized that the state’s investment in women’s empowerment is a strategic move to strengthen the state’s economy.
She said empowering women with capital and skills would boost trade, increase household income, and reduce poverty at the grassroots level.
Analysts Commend Edo Soft Loans for Market Women
Economic analysts have commended the Edo State Government for prioritising gender-focused economic programmes.
They noted that the ₦1bn Edo soft loan scheme would have a ripple effect on local productivity, food supply, and job creation.
A development economist, Dr. Osahon Igiebor, said the initiative is “a smart policy intervention that recognizes the central role of women in driving Nigeria’s informal economy.”
He added, “Market women are key to sustaining household incomes and community trade networks.
By providing soft loans, Edo State is effectively investing in small-scale entrepreneurship and local economic resilience.”
Community leaders across the state have also praised the Okpebholo administration for its commitment to empowering women through accessible financing and social support.
Sustainable Path to Economic Empowerment
Observers believe that the combination of financial support, entrepreneurial training, and institutional backing will create a sustainable model for women-led business growth.
The government’s emphasis on capacity building ensures that beneficiaries are equipped not only to start but also to scale their ventures responsibly.
By targeting women traders—who constitute a large portion of Edo’s informal economy—the Edo soft loans for market women programme stands to increase the state’s internal revenue, improve household welfare, and stimulate inclusive growth across all sectors.
As Abdallah reiterated during the briefing, “When you empower a woman, you empower a family, and when you empower families, you transform communities. Edo State is committed to leading that transformation.”
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