The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Mrs.) Maria Omozele Oligbi-Edeko, has been honored with two awards as a Gender Inclusion Champion by the Forum of University Women (FUNW), University of Benin (UNIBEN), and New Dawn Legislative Consultants Services.
The two awards were in recognition of her outstanding contribution to promoting gender equality, inclusion, and the empowerment of women in Edo State.
One of the prestigious awards was presented during the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration, which took place on Tuesday at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) campus, while the other was presented to her in her office at the House of Assembly complex.
The 2025 International Women’s Day celebration at UNIBEN was a significant occasion, marking a day of reflection on the progress made by women in various sectors, as well as a call to action for greater gender equality and empowerment.
The award presented to Hon. Oligbi-Edeko was in recognition of her outstanding leadership, dedication, and her contributions toward empowering women and fostering inclusive governance.
In her acceptance speech, Oligbi-Edeko, the member representing Esan North-East II, expressed her gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging the importance of such awards in encouraging women to continue breaking barriers in leadership roles.
She thanked the Forum of University Women for the honor and emphasized the significance of supporting and celebrating the achievements of women in all fields.
The Deputy Speaker also called on women to embrace the culture of supporting one another in order to achieve collective progress and break barriers in leadership and governance.
Speaking on the importance of women uplifting each other, she highlighted her own experience, acknowledging the pivotal role played by the former First Lady of Edo State, Dr. Betsy Obaseki, in her political journey.
“Dr. Betsy Obaseki stood firmly by me and ensured I secured the party ticket with which I contested and won my seat in the House of Assembly.
“Without Mrs. Obaseki’s unwavering support and influence, I may not have been given that opportunity,” she said.
She emphasized that women must always stand together, fostering solidarity and empowerment.
“At every point in time, women must rise up to support one another. We must recognize that our strength lies in unity, and when we lift each other, we all move forward,” she added.
She further commended First Ladies across the country for their continuous efforts in championing women’s causes, advocating for inclusion, and ensuring that women’s voices are heard in key decision-making spaces.
“Just as First Ladies across the nation are actively supporting women, creating opportunities, and ensuring that our voices are heard, we too must do the same in our own capacities. When women support women, there are no limits to what we can achieve.”
Her remarks serve as a clarion call for women to be intentional about empowering one another, fostering a society where gender inclusivity is not just a slogan but a reality.
Oligbi-Edeko further urged women to actively participate in politics and leadership roles, stressing that their involvement is essential for driving meaningful change in society.
The Deputy Speaker also called on the National and State Houses of Assembly to support the passage of the bill to create special seats for women in elective positions.
“The assignment for you all today is to go out and solicit support from party leaders, traditional rulers, and all stakeholders so that the bill will scale through,” she said.