By Lucky Isibor
The Edo State government has concluded arrangements to set up mobile courts to try cases of Gender Based Violence (GBV) to expedite action for justice for victims. The state government is also putting structures in place to foster an inclusive society where women, girls and the vulnerable are protected, empowered and given equal opportunities.
The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Chief Marie Olabisi Idahomi (Esq) stated this in an address presented at the press centre of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benin on Thursday, 6 March during a rally to mark the 2025 International Women Day celebration.
Addressing journalists during the rally under the global call to “inspire Inclusion,” with the theme “Accelerate Action: For All Women and Girls: RIghts, Equality, Empowerment”, the Commissioner assured that Edo State aligns with the theme of this year’s celebration.
“Today is not just a celebration of the remarkable achievements of women in Edo State and beyond but also a moment to reflect on the challenges that persist and the urgent actions required to bridge gender gaps across all sectors.
“We have strengthened our legal frameworks and support systems to protect survivors of gender-based violence as modalities are being put in place toward the establishment of mobile courts for expedited justice for survivors. Our shelters and support centres are providing crucial assistance, and we are working tirelessly to ensure perpetrators are held accountable. We have increased public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the unacceptability of gender-based violence.
“As we commemorate this year’s International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to accelerating action towards a more gender-inclusive Edo state. In the coming months, the government will launch additional tansformative initiatives aimed at further closing inequality gaps, including: Rural Women Empowerment Drive, Mobile training units and micro loan schemes targeting 18,000 rural women in 2025-2026.
“As we celebrate the achievements of women today, let us also reaffirm our resolve to accelerate action toward a future where every woman and girl in Edo State is empowered to fulfill her potential”.