The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, said his administration has approved the sum of N1 billion as soft loans to market women in the state.

Okpebholo disclosed this in Benin City at an event commemorating the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration.

Ekwutosblog reports that the governor opined that the approved N1 billion soft loan for market women would help boost their businesses, improve their lives, and enhance the state’s economy.

He said the loans were in appreciation of their steadfastness, dedication, and commitment to moving the state forward.

“Since I assumed office as Governor of Edo State, this is the first event that has been very colorful. I have been coming to the Festival Hall in Government House but have never seen a colorful event like this.

“We can actually do nothing as men without the women, and that was why when a memo came before me on soft loan approval, I quickly approved N1 billion for our market women.

“The process is already ongoing, and we are talking to the relevant financial institution for disbursement, as the money is ready and is credited only to Edo women.

“The women are truthful and straightforward. When they assure you of their backing, just relax and be assured that you will get their backing, especially during the election. Their words are firm,” he said.

Earlier, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Edesili Anani Okpebholo, urged Edo women never to be silent, pushed back, shut down, or strangled, emphasizing that their voices must be heard because they matter.

Anani, however, urged the women to add value and be committed in all they do in their careers, communities, and other life endeavors.

She commended Governor Okpebholo for taking decisive steps to ensure that no Edo woman is left behind in the quest for equal opportunities and justice.

“We are all gathered here to celebrate the achievements of women and renew the call for transformative change. The celebration reminds us of the incredible progress made by women and the world.

“This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action’, is not a mere slogan but a call for urgent inclusion, decisive change, and collaborative efforts.

“We must come together to end the barriers that still deny thousands of women their fundamental human rights—systemic inequality, violence against women and the girl child, and economic disparity—which have held back women’s progress around the globe. It is our duty to dismantle these obstacles in our environment,” she added.

She posited that IWD is an annual celebration of the achievements of women across the globe, as well as an avenue to strategize on ending barriers to women’s advancement.

The 2025 IWD celebration, with the theme “Accelerate Action”, emphasizes the urgent need to take decisive steps towards achieving gender equality, addressing the slow pace of progress, and empowering women and girls worldwide.